San Angelo City Council 9-2-25

[0:00:00] 30. It's let me see September 2nd, 2025. With that, let's call this meeting order and we'll start with our chaplain prayer. Our prayer from Chaplain John Rodriguez. Please come forward and give us a prayer. Is this your maiden voyage as a initial prayer? >> Yes. >> Thank you. Let us pray. Oh good and gracious God, look down on your servants today at this meeting. Bless all who are gathered here that your will be done in all things. Please look kindly upon all your servants as they go about doing work for the betterment of our city and our citizens. Give these council members the patience, the grace, the love, the compassion that they will need to make good decisions for our city. But most of all, Father, give them the wisdom of Solomon that all their decisions be just for all involved. We ask all these things in the name of your precious son, Jesus Christ. Amen. >> Amen. >> To the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Honor the Texas flag. I pledge allegiance to thee, Texas. One state under God, one and indivisible. Morning. We'll start off with a proclamation this morning. Um, the first one will be the proclamation of September 17th through 23rd as Constitution Week. September 17th, 2025 marks the 238th

[0:02:05] anniversary of the drafting of the Constitution of the United States of America by the Constitutional Convention. It is fitting and proper to accord official recognition to this magnificent document and its memorable anniversary and to the patriotic celebrations which commemorative the occasion. Public law 915 guarantees the issuing of a proclamation each year by the president of the United States of America designating September 17th through 23rd as Constitution Week. Therefore, I Tom Thompson, mayor of the city of St. Angelo, Texas, on behalf of the city council, do hereby proclaim the week of September 17th through 23rd, 2025 as Constitution Week, and ask our citizens to reaffirm the ideals the framers of the Constitution had in 1787 by viligently protecting the freedoms guaranteed to us through this guardian of our liberties, remembering that lost rights may never be regained. In witness thereof, I here to unset my hand and cause the seal of the official seal of the city of St. Angel to be fixed to this document the second day of September 2025. Would somebody like to come up here and take a photo? Is Lisa Maylor here? With that, we'll move on to the second one. This proclamation is for patriotism week. The the benevolent impractive order of Elks through its constitution is a patriotic order. The order promotes the ideals that the citizens of this nation live in freedom one through the great sacrifices and many tribulations which have provided the foundation for a free, prosperous and independent life. We realize that each generation must work to maintain freedom. Otherwise, through carelessness or indifference, the rights and liberties and joy may vanish. It is fitting and proper to recognize these freedoms and to honor the nation which provides it. Therefore, I, Tom Thompson, the mayor of the city of St. Angelo, Texas, on behalf of the

[0:04:08] city council to hereby proclaim September 8th through 14th, 2025 as patriotism week. And we urge all citizens to join me in the benevolent and protective order of the Elks in expressing gratitude for the privilege of American citizenship citizenship with appropriate celebrations and observance. >> Well, now so let's say a few words right here. >> Okay. >> Just state your name and say a few words. >> Okay. I'm Kyle Mantel. I'm currently the lodge secretary. Uh Councilman Thomas is our lodge past exalted ruler. Uh the Elks have had a long tradition of supporting patriotism throughout our country, our military, children, armed uh first responders and that and we just try to strive to continue that. >> Let's get a couple pictures. Good morning. So, it is both an honor and a privilege to stand before you today to recognize the truly extraordinary act of service, courage, professionalism by five members of the St. Angel Fire Department. On August the 10th, at approximately 11 a.m., a call was dispatched for an unconscious infant and OBGYn emergency. Ladder 1 and Medic 6 responded swiftly to the scene, not yet knowing the

[0:06:11] critical nature of what they were about to face. Upon arrival, the crew of Ladder 1 discovered a medical scenario that most never encounter in their careers. An infant born in Cal still enclosed in the amniotic sack. It's a one in 80,000 deliveries and it was delivered in the toilet at just 26 weeks gation. This child no long was no larger than the palm of your hand and was in grave danger. With skill, calm under pressure, and true dedication, ladder one crew carefully removed the infant from the sack and immediately initiated life-saving resuscitations. Within moments, medic 6 arrived to continue the support and the effort. Working together with seamless coordination, the team provided CPR and supplemental supplemental oxygen and rapidly transported the infant to the emergency department without delay. Their efforts were nothing short of miraculous. Thanks to their swift and decisive actions, the infants regained a pulse during transport and was transferred into the care of a hospital staff. We are proud to share that the child is expected to make a full recovery. It is difficult to overstate the gravity of this day. Without the rapid expert care delivered by these responders, the outcome could have been much tragically different. Instead, because of their dedication, their training, and a life was saved. Therefore, without hesitation, um I would like to highlight the highest respect in administration. It is with extreme pride that I present the St. Angelo Fire Department life-saving award and a stork batch stor pin. First, I'd like to recognize the captain of the ladder truck, CJ Naylor. They can still see me. Engineer Darren

[0:08:23] Wright, firefighter McShane Matthews, firefighter Anthony Gossip, [Laughter] Firefighter Daniel Coder. Each of you exemplify what it means to be a first responder. Prepared, compassionate, unwavering in the face of crisis. You not only upheld the mission of the Stangel Fire Department, you fulfilled the the deepest calling of this profession to save lives. On behalf of the St. Angelo Fire Department and the city of the San of St. Angelo, we thank you. Your actions will never be forgotten. Congratulations. We'll move forward into the public

[0:11:23] comment. Members of the public comment may raise issues or concerns not listed on the regular agenda during this time. To participate, please sign in with the city clerk prior to the beginning of the meetings. Speakers will be called in order they were signed in. When speaking, citizens must speak from the podium, address all comments to the dis. Begin by stating your name and address or single member district and limit the remarks to two minutes. Heather, have we got any public comment? >> Yes, sir. Dearmed Campbell Hold on. Just let's let's all get this paperwork before they start. should be. All right, Mr. Campbell. Uh, good morning. My name is Darren Campbell. I'm with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. Uh, my address is 909 Katau Street. Uh, and I'm actually here representing a constituents out of all y'all's districts. Uh, the two papers, um, that you have, uh, the first one with my business card attached is in regards to wage theft, um, which I have brought up twice before to this council. uh as you'll see through it, it's occurred on

[0:13:27] uh county courthouse jobs, ISD jobs, uh military base, uh ASU, pretty much all throughout the city. Um therefore, I'm bringing it up uh to the city with the bonds that were passed over $400 million. Uh these guidelines attached to the bonds. uh and especially since the taxpayer money is being funded for it. I would believe the city would want to know that these funds are being distributed and not stolen from the workers who are building these institutions. Uh secondly, uh the paper with the formal complaint is uh licensing issues and uh enforcement um that I have brought to the inspection department uh since a year or two ago uh directly to the inspector. but more importantly uh to the heads of the in uh electrical inspection department stating non-licensed uh letter heads from employers stating they're using unlicensed people. TDLR issued warnings as well as a complaint stating that the electrical inspector is knowingly allowing his son-in-law to work unlicensed. All these I bring up to you because they go against state and city ordinances. So these two issues directly fall under the city. And I'm just hoping uh that we can actually have an honest conversation. Uh it's neat. I shouldn't say neat. It's uh interesting that it's going on 5 months since the last correspondence in March with the city uh to the heads on why licensing isn't being enforced by St. Angelo's own records within the last 5 years. There has not been a single uh warning issued when TDLR has issued those warnings. And I even brought up the two contractors who those warnings were issued on. So, how is it that I am finding this that

[0:15:30] TDLR is issuing warnings, but our own city inspector is not? I talk to electricians every day, and I have not met one who has ever been asked for their electrical license. We have to do continuing education every year. This needs to be looked at if we want to bring in entities and business to St. Angelo, we got to respect the trades and make a level playing field for honest contractors and honest workers. Thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. Cam. >> Trinidad Gary. >> Well, good morning. mayor, city council, and Mr. Alenuela. It's good to be here. And good morning to everyone. My name is Trinidad Giri, and I reside in in Tommy's district, uh, district number one. Uh, today's really an honor and a privilege for me to welcome what I call a historic moment, and it's the official announcement of the Greater Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of St. Angelo. uh we're not we don't want to be just an organization but we want to be someone that is opening doors to a lot of the individuals that have that have come forth and asked for additional support in language and in special considerations for some of the work that are some of the issues that they are facing. Uh we're opening these doors for entrepreneurs who have dreams bigger than their budgets for small business owners who work long hours and lacked a network of support. for professionals who are ready to lead, to connect, and to build a future whose success reflects the diversity of our community. The Hispanic community, as you're well aware of, is one of the fastest growing and most dynamic economic forces in St. Angelo and will represent about 40% of the population or slightly over. Uh, Hispanic businesses

[0:17:35] contribute millions of dollars to St. Angelo economy and create thousands of jobs in our community. Yet, we often operate without the institutional support or representation we need to really thrive. But that ends today. The Greater Hispanic Chamber of Commerce was founded with one clear mission to empower Hispanic businesses and professionals with the tools, resources, and relationships needed for them to succeed. We're here to amplify voices to drive innovation and to ensure the economic opportunity is inclusive and equitable for everyone. The chamber will act as a hub. We don't want to duplicate anyone else's effort. A place where ideas are shared, partnerships are formed, and the culture is celebrated. We look forward to meeting with our congressmen, Congressman Fluger, Senator Perry, and Representative Darby to get their input and direction because we want to be in line with all of the entities. Uh ASU President Hawkins has really set a standard for uh the Hispanic enrollment and and graduation. He's received a tremendous amount of awards. So, we'll be asking for his input and those things that he's done to be very successful. We'll also meet with um the local businesses. Shannon uh uh the all of the other major entities out there to identify their needs and to sure that we're on the right path. We're not going to this with a blind eye. We want to make sure we have everybody's input. Michael Dayne, of course, from Kosa DC will be a valuable partner as we as we look at pursuing economic development opportunities. I've met with several of the Hispanic businesses that would like to come to St. Angelo and it would be it would be a a great opportunity for us to meet with them and see what their needs are. Thank you for this vision and uh thank you for joining us today. Let's make history together and gracias and welcome to the Greater Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Thank you, >> Trinidad. Thank you for that. I think that's something we'll see you chair and pioneer and we appreciate your input

[0:19:38] there. Thank you. Have >> anybody else for public comment? >> Uh Shaina Hill. Good morning, mayor and council members. Thank you for the opportunity to speak. My name is Shaina Hill. I'm the conservation manager and KAB coordinator for the city of St. Angelo. And I'm here on behalf of Keep St. Angelo Beautiful to share some exciting news about an upcoming community event, the Fall Sweep, happening Saturday, September 27th. Fall Sweep is a citywide cleanup and beautifification effort that brings together residents, local businesses, schools, and civic groups to help refresh and revitalize our our neighborhoods as we head into the fall season. On top of the litter pickup, it's a day of teamwork, pride, and giving back. This is more than just a cleanup. It's about building community connections, fostering neighborhood pride, and encouraging residents to take an active role in caring for spaces that we all share. We're encouraging teams from across the city, businesses, clubs, students, and families to get involved. Registration is now open, and we'd love to see participation from every district. I'd also like to extend an invitation to all of you here as leaders of this city to consider forming or joining a team. Your pres your presence would send a powerful message about the importance of civic civic pride and shared responsibility. I brought flyers with more information and I'm happy to answer any questions or provide additional materials. Thank you again for your time and I hope to see many of you on the 27th for the fall sweep. >> Thank you, Shane. Harry, we're going to think you're going to be our representative on that one. All right. We're not going to cut off your eight years of that. With that, Heather, do we have any more public comment? >> That's all. >> That's all. So, we're going to close public comment. We'll move into the consent agenda. Um,

[0:21:42] as we roll, let me see. Let's go through the consent agenda. I will ask if anybody has any items they'd like to pull. Mary, I'll start with you. >> Karen? >> Yes, sir. >> Patrick, >> no. >> I want to pull item C. Harry, >> no sir. >> Joe, >> Mr. Heert, >> all right, that. So with that, I'll look for a motion. >> So move. >> So move for all items. Items A through um F excluding C. I've got a first and a second. Any public comment on the public? With that, can I have a vote? All in favor say I. Any opposed? All items except C pass 70. Now we'll move into item C. Shane. >> Yes, sir. >> Okay. This one's a I would like for you to explain a little bit about this one as it does go into a little bit of the airport and the purpose of this and the scope of how it ties into say the taxi way and the fire suppression and the hangers. >> Yep. as uh as we're looking at expanding out at the airport in that in the area out there, uh one of the issues that we have is is the fire suppression systems and of course, you know, with the POS and POE issues, you know, a lot of the firefighting phones that we used to be able to use in those type situations is no longer usable anymore. So, they've kind of changed how we're h how they're having to uh look at fire suppression systems and hangers in in the airport in general. And so looking to try to create the enough volume for expected and future growth at the airport. Uh we're having to take uh step back and take a look at at the amount of water and available water that we have for firefighting and firefighting suppression systems uh in these as we try to expand the airport. That's what this looks into. This this takes our existing system that we have which is uh it's not a new system. Uh we're using

[0:23:45] the uh existing um old treatment facility out there from the 1940s. >> I've had a lot of questions about the functionality of the old treatment system when it's where our status is with that. So I hope you're touching into that. >> Sure. Yeah. And and the you know there there is no treatment system out there anymore. Everything comes from our central treatment plant in in downtown St. Angelo. And so all of the all of the treated water throughout the city comes from that one plant. So this is just simply there. We have an old clear well there, a million gallon clear well. And so that's where we basically it's we use it as a water storage tank for firefighting suppression. And so it's basically purple pipe at that point uh from that point on into the system. Um uh where we allow people to tap into that system for uh hanger suppression, office fire suppression, those type things. or even uh we do have some fire plugs out there that the firefighters can use that uh basically that non-potable water to for fire suppression firefighting uh purposes out there. So, uh but again, as we're moving into the future and we're looking at this, we're we're limited in that capacity uh to what we have. Uh we can only we can only fill at a certain rate based off of our, you know, existing system that we have out there. And so, as as as we're moving along, this is this this group is going to come in and take a look at all of that. look at uh look at the area of expansion that we're looking at currently, look at our existing flows, um and and and again, we know we're lacking in those areas, but again, and then take and look at a secondary pumping system using emergency water from Lake Nazworthy, basically. Um if if our if our general distribution system can't handle it, this will be a backup system to be able to push water, emergency water from Lake Nazworthy into this wet well. Um and then from there we'll be able to go through the fire pumping system into basically the fire supp for all fire suppression issues at the deal increasing our capacity. Uh currently we have one 1500 gallon a minute pump. We are looking to uh at least double that capacity if not uh even more up to you know two uh two 2,00

[0:25:50] to 2500 um uh gallon per minute pumps uh for fire for the fire suppression side. um along with backup generation um and some other things that we really need to do to upgrade that increasing pipe size coming out of that system into the into the into the airport property itself and then through that distribution system as well. >> So would it be right to say this is an alternative to needing an immediate request for a pipeline to come all the way around to the airport? It it it is this uh this allows us as of course you know we we are expecting growth in in that area of town in that part of town as we continue to move south uh now that we have the Lake Nazworthy sewer trunk main and we we can expand or start expanding south of the lake. We we really expect things to start taking off in that area. We know we are going to have to have more portable water in that area. Um but currently right now it's it's one of those that we have demand at the airport right now saying we need water right now so we can build and unfortunately for fire suppression that's a lot of water uh that we just don't have in our existing distribution system. So, as we look to uh expand out our distribution system over the next few years, uh this this will allow us uh more time to build that out more thoughtfully um and actually more fiscally responsible than just trying to throw a whole lot of money at something real fast. That that uh again um when we start looking at extending 30-in transmission mains and you're looking at elevated storage, you know, you're you're in the you know the 15 to20 million range. And again, we think we can get this project brought in a lot faster and again take care of fire suppression without using portable water. And I think that as we look at a from a conservation-minded society here in St. Angelo where we're um you know always looking for the next waiting for the next rain and praying for the next rain uh to fill up our lakes. Um using uh using a source that is not dependent solely upon our portable water system I think is also uh incredibly um smart as

[0:27:53] we move forward. A a second part of me pulling this Shane I just want to commend staff for bringing this forward. was one of the things we discussed um the first week of June uh tail into May first part of June and what we were looking at is might have been a a four or five sixyear headwind headache we now brought it to be and it looks like we're going to be able to provide an alternative for while I say this is probably not a permanent solution it's a good solution to allow us to develop the airport and I just want to com uh I say thank all of staff and commend him for bringing this forward as fast as you did with that I'll make a motion to approve. >> Second. >> Second by Harry Thomas. Any public comment? >> Well, with that said, we'll take a vote. All in favor say I. >> Any opposed? Item C passes 70. We'll move into the regular agenda. Comments regarding items on the regular agenda may be made by the public when each item is discussed as outlined above. To participate, please sign in with the city clerk prior to the beginning of the meeting. Speakers will be called in order they are signed in. Comments are limited to less than three minutes. Applicants, proponents, and appellants are exempt from the time limit above and instead must limit the remarks to less than 5 minutes. We'll move straight into item A, excuse me. Consider ratifying KOSA DC approval to terminate the existing professional service agreement between KOSA DC and the San Angelo Chamber of Commerce effective September 30th, 2025 and approving a new agreement to begin October 1st, 2025, not to exceed an amount of 476,000 with a one-year term agreement and authorizing the board president to negotiate and execute all related documents. Presentation by interim economic director Michael Dayne. Morning, Mayor and Council. As you're aware, the uh the Development Corporation has a contract with the Chamber of Commerce where the Chamber of Commerce does our outreach and recruiting. Um they also help us when somebody's made it clear that they're looking to uh

[0:29:56] locate or uh expand here. They do a lot of handholding, helping them through whatever process they're going through. Sometimes that's permitting and building, and sometimes that's uh uh searching for real estate. they uh whatever a prospect needs they they try to uh try to accomplish. Um this is a little out of sequence. Our regular contract with them runs through the end of the calendar year. They are seeking to change that to align with our fiscal year and that's at the chambers request. They're going to do attempt to do the same thing with the DMO contract that we're going to discuss later today. So today this item is for renewal of that contract. It says cancellation and initiation of a a new agreement, but this is really renewal at an early date uh for a new year. And we're going to talk about key performance indicators. What do we get for the contract? And uh Steve is here to help us through these key performance indicators. Mayor, council members, Steve Elenius, president, CEO of the St. Angela Chamber of Commerce, 418 West Avenue B. Uh, very excited to be here to get this opportunity to present. Obviously, it's a partnership with the city and it's a key element to how we grow the economy and create opportunities for citizens of San Angelum. Uh there is nothing more powerful than a good paying job that impacts a person, a family and a community. And I think the role that the chamber plays in recruiting new industries, helping and assisting existing industries, and in fostering new startups is going to be a key to St. Angel's long-term success. So I just want to touch briefly on some of the key performance indicators. And this is part of the contract that we would negotiate

[0:31:58] with the city to make sure that these indicators are met and that there is a quarterly reporting process that we bring to the to the citiz city council and also to the development corporation. You know, obviously the big thing is the number of jobs created. Uh we're we're proposing 90 new jobs being created or retained over the next fiscal year. We're talking about hund00 million in initial uh capital new capital investment in the community. We're hoping that number goes higher, but I think it's going to be a great opportunity for us. Uh calling on uh 50 established businesses as part of the business retention program working with Sarma, which is the San Angel regional manufacturing association in terms of helping them uh continue development with workforce. Uh obviously that has grown over the years. You know, five, six years ago, workforce was probably number three or four on the list as far as what businesses and industries were looking for. Today, it's almost it's probably one or two. Uh, obviously, a big part of this and what why the increase in requests for funding is we want to be more proactive in going after prospects and new businesses. Uh, we've got an outstanding team with Michael Looney and Mike Barry leading the charge with economic development. Each one of them brings a unique skill set to the table. Uh, and I would really like to turn Michael Looney loose on the state of Texas and have him go after and recruit key industries for our community. Right now, we're playing catch, meaning we have to wait till something kind of falls in our lap. And I think that's a that that long term is going to hurt our community if we're not out there proactively uh seeking new industries and new businesses to come here. Second, um Mike Barry brings a great analytic skills to the table in terms of providing in-depth analysis and that's something that we want to expand on and make sure that we have opportunities that we're looking at what we have and how do you connect those

[0:34:00] dispar disparity uh dots out there to bring those things together. So, we're excited about that. Uh obviously it's a very comprehensive economic development strategy and program uh and be happy to try to answer questions as it relates to the KPIs or other elements of economic development that you'd like to ask. Steve, thank you very much. And it's uh I just want to say on behalf of this side of council and the DAS, we're very happy to be moving forward with the relationship that we've started off. Uh, I think it's going to be very important for the success of any city for not only the council, but the DMO and the chamber all to be in lock step moving forward. I think we've seen those initial steps here. I'm like you. I think it's time we quit playing catch and we go out and pursue those things. We've got some great things that are in the oven that are baking right now that will literally change and move move St. Angelo to be a much bigger point on the map in the next 4 8 12 years. It's just going to be some great things. But we have to pull all those other things that keep us interdependent upon each other and moving forward. I just say I want to say it. I I'm going to throw this one over. We're going to call audible and I'm going to throw it to Tommy. Uh talk a little bit about the BREP and your calls and explain to the people a little bit about that. Tommy, will you kind of lead that? >> Sure. Well, I I'll let Steve say what he's going to do, but but Bre essentially is working with local existing ongoing business concerns and uh something that um we haven't done as much in the past. Um and so Steve, I'll let you since this is your your show really, but I'll let you walk through that. >> Excellent question. uh council member uh business retention if you look at in terms of an entire economic development uh project or program 80 to 85% of your jobs created are going to be created by your existing industries. So you want to create that environment where they feel welcome that you know obviously capital goes where it's welcome and stays where

[0:36:02] it's uh where it's being used. And so uh San Angela has an excellent reputation as a pro business community. We want to continue that, but want to be a little bit more strategic in terms of making regular calls on a monthly basis to existing industries and major employers, but then also doing what I call a focus on business event quarterly with the city council, key business leaders where we just showcase that industry or business and ba basically show them the love of how much we appreciate them being a part of this community. I know I'm going to use the example of what happened with the flood on July 4th. Michael Looney has been out calling on businesses impacted on the north side of town, reaching out to them and checking in with them. That's the type of effort that he pays huge dividends for this community because people that have invested their lives into the making their business successful are people who have invested in this community, those businesses, they want to know that they're recognized and appreciated. And so I think that's a prime example of the skills and the skill sets that this team brings to the table for business retention. But it is a critical component. Uh and obviously one of those elements is calling on corporate headquarters. Uh we have not done that in a number of years. And I think that's something that as part of this program we want to make sure that we implement that we are calling on those corporate headquarters and we want this, you know, again sending that message. We appreciate them being in the community but also looking for those opportunities for new missions, new operations that we are competing against other communities in the country and internationally. And so I think it's a big part of an economic development program and very excited about what it's going to what fruit it's going to bear for us. >> Mayor, let me expand on one thing Steve said. 80 to 85% according to the SBA of of your new jobs are created by your ex already existing businesses. Um, one thing that we have as um, an arrow in

[0:38:07] our quiver is the fact that we have the development corporation that can help if a business has a very specific um, code, nakes code, uh, used to call it SIC code um, that they can assist if that business may need some uh, assistance uh, with respect to a grant, with respect to maybe helping by down an interest rate on a loan. So that I think too would be a part of of Steve's uh initiative. So that's something that uh we used to see as a council we used to see several more than several of those a year and uh doesn't matter why that slowed down, but maybe that can pick back up again through this this effort and this initiative. Um so Steve, thanks. I I got one question for you. I didn't see anything and maybe maybe it's the the way you intended it but I didn't see anything in terms of a key performance indicator with respect to uh increasing our tax base that is I think one of the one of the uh very foundational aspects of economic development. So can you talk us through some yes KPIs with this? >> Great question. Obviously you want to see increases in the tax base and that's where you see when you talk about hund00 million in capital investment in the community that's going to create additional tax revenues. And obviously as policy makers you you're obviously balancing between commercial and residential property tax. And right now we're skewed more toward residential. And the idea is to grow the commercial uh property tax base that it will take a load off of your residential property tax and put it on commercial. Uh I am pretty optimistic that over the next several years we're going to be able to impact that in a very dramatic way. Uh that I think is going to benefit not only the the residential taxpayers but also the community as a whole. And so that's a cre a key strategy. And then

[0:40:11] also sales tax. Uh and you want to see that growing in the community. You want to see people spending money in your community. Uh that benefits not only those local small businesses but also benefits the city because of the halfsent sales tax and what it generates in terms of revenue for uh to do programs like economic development and other things. And so, uh, those are things that we're very aware of and we're trying to make sure that we're impacting and growing those things because, uh, you're either your your community either growing and expanding or shrinking and declining and we definitely want to be on the growing and expanding side of the proposition. >> Steve, I have a question for you. Uh, one to to what you were talking about with the businesses that were affected, you know, during the flood and stuff and I worked with Michael Looney on some of those and I followed up with his initial calls with them and one example is Trior Steel. They were they're located within the city limits but they didn't qualify for the trash pickup, the debris pickup because they were, you know, commercial. But by having that dialogue with them that that was able to be done for them and it's real that's a direct result of of that communication and that getting in with their well-being and when they weren't weren't were about to consider leaving St. Angelo now they're staying. >> Yeah. >> So that what Michael is doing this Michael other Michael is doing other great things too. That personal touch will impact St. Angelo by quite several million dollars just by them staying. >> Yeah. >> And enough that he sent me a text a picture of the debris being removed. And so just that little personal deal can tilt the scale back to you, back to us. Now on that capital investment secured, you got a hundred million. Is that

[0:42:12] guaranteed or is that just a a really hopeful? >> That's nothing's guaranteed, council member, as you know. But we are we feel very confident that we can achieve that and hopefully more. >> What's the time frame on that? >> Uh within this next fiscal year >> really all 100 million or a portion? >> Well, obviously depending on the scope and size of the project, those are fa could be phased in over a number of years. Uh but we're hoping with what we have in the pipeline that we would see at least a minimum of 100 million invested in the community within the next 12 months. >> Okay. Not to put you on the spot here, but what is the what's the impact to our bottom line with that? I know it's not a straight 100 million, but what would that >> you know, that's numbers we're not used to hearing. >> I have not calculated that. Um I know uh that's something we probably need to do a better job of with this type of investment. what the return the the net gain in terms of property tax for the city. But we can come up with that number for you. I don't want to misspeak >> today, but I think we can come up with that number for you in terms of what the yield is and property tax for the for the city. I also want to Mary compliment you for reaching out to those uh businesses on the north side that were impacted. that you know that had a huge impact and that sends a real strong message and again that's part and parcel to the uh business retention program and I think the focus on business event that we're going to be doing those events we're going to be doing is going to be a good chance and opportunities for each one of the city council members to uh express appreciation you know get to know folks on a one-on-one basis so that in the future they can pick up the phone and say hey mayor uh I need some help or you know and so that's that's the type of dynamics that you want to see happen in a community where people feel comfortable reaching out and saying, "I need help." >> Well, good. I'm glad you're here, Steve. >> Karen, have you got any questions? We'll move down the dots. Patrick. >> Yeah, I do. >> Do you um have an idea of how many of

[0:44:15] those KPIs you've met in the last year? I you know uh I've been here eight months now and so I'm you know I know there were specific things that the economic development contract called for them to do. I couldn't go back and specifically identify what they've done this past year. I know there's been several things that have moved forward. Some of these are new KPIs. Some of these are being um memorialized in a KPI kind of you know we're going to track these things moving forward. Uh, and so that's, you know, Michael Michael Looney can maybe answer some of those questions of what's been done previous years. >> Um, and then on that with the, um, we talked about a lot more events and things like that. Are you is this contract going to enable you to hire more people or just be able to send them more places? Like it feels like you're uh, some of your KPIs, I don't know what they were doing, but it sounds like it's a lot of work with just Mike and Michael. >> Well, I I'm also involved with it. This is this is an area I have a lot of passion about. Uh a key element is obviously sending uh folks, you know, Michael to events, site selector events, getting in front of site selectors. He's very dynamic and uh meeting with people one- on-one. Uh but then also shephering those deals as they come. And so we've got several projects that are in the pipeline that uh Michael is shephering now through the process. uh and I've sat in on his phone calls and he has built a tremendous relationship with these prospects which which is what you want to see. And so um to in in a bigger part we're trying to you know really lay out here's the K KPIs that we're going to do for this coming year. This is what we want to be measured on and this is what we want to deliver. And so it sounds like I mean kind of from that it sounds like the majority of this will actually go towards just attracting business and not just labor labor rate. >> I mean is that am I saying that again? I'm sorry I didn't hear. >> So it sounds like the majority of this increase is going to go straight to generating business and not just hiring three more staff to do

[0:46:16] >> No. Of course. Yeah. Uh the chamber I will tell you runs very lean. Um and I think that's a good philosophy to operate from. uh and and when you run lean, I always tell folks when you have no money, you get very creative, right? And so, uh our goal is to become very creative in terms of finding ways to do things. It's a and recognizing it's a partnership. We I think we bring certain elements to the table along with the city and Kosa DC uh to the table to make this work. And that's what really excites me about where we're going to be able to go over the next couple years. >> No, I I think it's great. I I think that's I mean let Michael has done great. He's one of the first people I met when I was uh on city council and he uh I don't think you'll find any of us that don't want to grow Sanzo business-wise because it helps everything. Um and so I think this is uh welld deserved and probably should have been done in years past. At least a little bit of help. >> Yeah. Thank you. >> Thank you Steve Harry. Well, I I wasn't going to get involved in this conversation, but I will because I think Michael and Mike are pro some of the best things has ever happened to this particular community overall. What they've done in the last two or three years is just an inkling of what's going to happen in the next 5 to 10 years in this community. So from my perspective, I want to make sure that this particular partnership continues uh with Michael Dayne and and Coid SEAB board works with the chamber so that we can bring these things to the city council uh as we've got these opportunities. So thanks Steve. Uh thanks for being in St. Angelo. Michael, thank you so much. You and I have been together since my early on in my career. Uh so I appreciate what you do. Uh, and I think this this partnership is is is gonna grow. So, thank you, >> Mr. Self.

[0:48:17] >> I'm good. >> Reverend He, >> I'll make a motion we approve the agreement. >> So, I've got a first to say what I like. Daniel, have you got any comments? >> I do have a comment. >> This is a big increase from last year to this year. A big increase. >> Yes, sir. And right now with what's happening with our state legislators, all the changes that keep happening, we are having our expenditures limited. The services that we provide are going to be quite limited. We have to start looking at where we can cut back. And in some areas probably that we're not going to be comfortable doing what we have to do. And I say all this because the onus and the desperation that I feel is that you guys are really going to have to step up and make sure that the KPIs are met. Uh we'll meet on a quarterly basis. Mary, you had a very you asked a very good question. I think if anything, productivity is going to be key for us uh in the coming years. Uh meeting on a quarterly basis. We'll be monitoring this very carefully to make sure that the growth has been there. The KPIs are working as stated. If not, how can we tweak it? What is going wrong? What can we change? But again, uh we're going to count a lot on you guys. You know, the chamber uh as far as these contracts, not just this one. We're about to talk about the the DMO as well. tourism, the sales tax revenues and comes into our community is going to be huge for us also. So again, uh the KPIs you have there, great. Uh we we look forward to its performance and we'll be monitoring that very closely as well. So again, we're putting a lot of faith and trust in you, the city council is by the big increase you guys are getting for this coming year. So >> again, just wanted to make sure that uh Mary council members know that we are going to be watching this very carefully as well to make sure the performance is there. Daniel, great great great statement and obviously transparency and accountability is a big part of that. uh anytime you take tax money uh there is a there is a uh intended uh implicit uh contract and deliverables and I think very comfortable in making sure that we're going to be able to deliver these uh in in such a way that I think

[0:50:19] everybody's going to be pleased and it's going to work out really well and obviously recognizing um what's going on in the Texas legislature as they continue to compress property tax uh that is a challenge and again that's why I think these roles now are more important than ever before because if we can grow that tax base uh and do some things with the sales tax, it's going to benefit the city and it's going to kind of help steer that, you know, some of that compression that you see being proposed in the Texas legislature. >> Yes, sir. That's why performance is going to be very key, not just this year, but the coming years as well. So, absolutely look forward to working with you on that. >> I have a first from Tommy Heert and a second from Harry Thomas. Do we have any public comment? >> With none, we'll take a vote. All those in favor of approving the chamber contract say I. >> I. >> Any opposed? >> With no nays, item A passes 70. We'll move into item B, discussion and possible action regarding the destination marketing organization contract. Number one, presentation of the destination marketing organization by vice president Jeremy Barts. Item two will be consider approving a contract with the San Angelo DMO hotel occupancy tax receipts to be used for eligible activities and authorizing the city manager to negotiate and execute all related documents. Presentation manager by Daniel. So let's uh let's go first with Jeremy and then follow up with you Daniel. >> Sure. Jeremy, you're on. >> Before Jeremy gets up here, Steve Elenius, president CEO of the San Anda Chamber of Commerce. I'm going to make the hard ask so he gets to be the hero here. Um so obviously in conjunction with the conversation we had with the economic development uh the DMO activities is really critical in terms of driving new people to visit spend their money and go back home which is always a great proposition for any community. uh very excited about some of the things that we have uh that we're

[0:52:22] working on that we're going to be bringing to the table and obviously going to be talking to you as policy makers about opportunities that may happen over the next 12 months. Um this contract's been in existence uh for a number of years at this dollar amount. Uh and so what I'm asking for is an increase to a million49,498 I believe somewhere in that that figure. Uh I think that'll allow us to again to do some of these things that'll make us continue to make us competitive in terms of attracting new events, sporting events and also associations. That's the first request. The second request is there has been what has what I've been been been made aware of as a clawback provision uh that the city had in conjunction with the DMO contract currently and this been this has been there for a number of years and currently there's about a $17,000 clawback uh number that exists uh with the con with the existing contract with the DMO and the city and my request would be that we would elimin eliminate or forgive that $17,000 clawback uh with the new contract which would begin October 1. And again, our goal is to get our budgets aligned with the city budget cycle so that we're all on the same page and working in the same same rate and speed. And so with that, I'd be happy to try to answer questions about that or Jeremy can answer some questions about some of the things that he's been doing the last quarter in terms of DMO activities. I think we're good. So, have you got a question? Anybody have a question? Michael, were you going to make a comment? Mayor, this item follows in format similar to the CODC item where we're uh keying on the key performance indicators. The success we have had in

[0:54:25] this contract in the past is rooted in uh those quarterly conversations we have where they bring to us what it is their efforts have been and what they think their efforts are going to be in the in the next quarters. Um and so we could we plan to continue that here. Um and we have key performance indicators listed if you'd like to go through those or have information about those. Um but the key there is that quarterly cycle where we talk to one another about these these are the results we've gotten. Michael before you leave I want you to talk a little bit about the clawback and why that happened and how those things happens where we don't make the moves at the end of the year that we should similar to what we do with council. >> Okay. uh clawback is rooted in monies we have advanced to them that they have not spent. The ordinarily if if money didn't have a restricted nature that we would have a lot more latitude there. But occupancy tax is restricted in its nature. And so we advance to them cut them a big check early in the year uh to help them with cash flow issues. But we expect all of that money to be used in accordance with the contract and in accordance with state the state act which controls uh uh creates the restrictions for occupancy tax revenue and so go ahead. Were you about to say something? >> Yeah. So, I mean, I guess I'd be curious to hear, you know, specifics on the the waiver forgiveness, but the contract provides that unspent funds would come back because they are hotel occupancy tax restricted. So, they can only be used for certain purposes that are uh listed out in the act. And so I guess if we say you're still going to spend them for those purposes, they don't necessarily have to come back to

[0:56:27] the city, but we have to be able to account for that. But I don't think we could flat out just wave it or forgive it and say, "Yes, you can keep it and not use it on hotel tax approved items." So, >> right. So, we get that with the definition. But what I'm going to is sometimes at the end of the year, if you watch our budgets with Tina, we'll do lots of carryovers and votes for carryovers of things just to make sure although we didn't spend it, we have it earmarked for something, >> right? >> And there's times, I think, with hotel tax that our transition from one year to the following year didn't go and we we sit back and we look at items like that and it puts us in a jam. And I hate the fact that this clawback has been going on for how many years? >> Forever. >> Yeah. And so we we we need to clean the slate, but we need to definitely, you know, or be very definitive in our terms. And I appreciate you saying if if it is hotel tax, that's what it has to be used on. But we just need to be very uh well defined in our expectations of carryover and non-carryover because I don't want anybody on this council to have to deal with it again or future councils. >> May Mary, you made a good point. The key word that you used was earmarked. If we get to the end of the year and an I and a a lump of money is earmarked, we we're waiting on that invoice or we're going to buy that software, then we come to council when it's an internal issue. We come to council and say, "Hey, we've got this this money tied up in a purchase order. The project's not going to complete before the end of the fiscal year or didn't complete before the end of the fiscal year. We need that money carried over." we can do the same go through that same process with the with the chamber and this contract council retains that authority to do that. So it that can happen in in this case we're not aware of an earmark for that money. However, if if they were to say we got $17,000 worth of software we're going to buy which is directly related to occupancy tax production that that's something the council could consider. >> Okay, cool. Thank you, Michael.

[0:58:31] >> Steve, you've got one more comment. >> Just one more comment. I want to get >> one third more comment. >> Yeah. Uh just uh to to the point about the hotel occupancy tax. I've been doing this for a long time. Have uh operated CVBS or DMOS as part of the chamber contract. Very aware of the laws that regulate and control how that money can be expended. Uh never had an issue uh misappropriating or misspending that money in categories it could not be spent. So I want you as policy makers to rest assured that we're going to make sure that the money is accounted for and second is spent appropriately in ways that it can be spent. >> Thank you, Steve. There there is an option for a way to accomplish that. It's not forgiveness, but it is an option to allow them to retain $17,000 as a fund balance. >> Okay. uh right now we advance them money and and we don't authorize a a restricted fund balance or a fund balance made up of occupancy tax dollars. Uh that could happen with with your direction. Uh or if you want it at the next quarterly meeting, they could bring us a proposal for how they'd like to address that and then we bring it back to council for action. >> Okay. Thank you, Michael. >> The the key item today though, I'm not sure how much action we could take on the 17. Brandon would have to tell us uh because we're posted for the contract itself. >> Yeah. As to the the current contract, I'm not sure we could take action on that, but in the new contract, we can address the call back to >> account for it in the future. Yeah. >> All right. We'll look for Daniels and your direction on that when we get to that point after Jeremy does his presentation. I'm gonna ask Brian Jeremy Barts, vice president destination marketing organization with Chamber of Commerce. I'm gonna ask Brian to go ahead and pull up our um our presentation. I did bring you all some paper copies. I wasn't sure if they still had this pulled up or not from a couple of weeks back. Um so you don't have to look at the paper if you

[1:00:34] don't want. I can kind of share with you some of the things that we've done over the last uh first two quarters of the year. So, first up, through 2025 through Q2, as of right now, we've had a little over 800,000 total trips into the city of St. Angelo. We use a software called Datafi. Datafi tracks uh essentially where people are coming from, what they do when they come into town, and gives us a general idea of of how long they stay. Okay, that software is key to everything that we do uh on a daily basis to understand where our marketing efforts should be uh emphasized where we should spend more of our money, your money, the sales tax money that we have here to get more people here. So, they've stayed an average of two and a half days. That's great hotel occupancy tax for us, right? a little over a million uh 1.9 million visitor days total. Uh this year what I have seen that is is most impressive to me is that business travel seems to be coming back in historic past. Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday has always been our number one leading category. Weekend travel has been big for us. What I'm seeing now is that Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday are starting to catch up. That tells us that business travel is kicking up. And you'll also see that reflected in our occupancy numbers. That's something that we can go back to and say, "Okay, correlation data. It's all showing the same." Our demographics will not likely change. That 45 to 64 age range is typically going to be our number one, but I want you to see the 25 to 44 is starting to catch up. Now, it takes time, but that tells us that the younger crowd is starting to find more in St. Angelo that they want to do. So, with the help of some of these in improved venues and improved facilities, we're going to see that continue to increase as well because those folks now have the ability to travel. They want to get out. They want to see what our city has to offer. Our sales bookings through June of 2025

[1:02:36] are 67 with 14,400 room nights sold so far this year. One key that I wanted to make sure that everybody on the uh the council got to hear is that we did win the West Texas Judges Convention for April of 2027. That was a huge win for us. And and if you didn't know anything about it, that's a roughly 350 person group, plus spouses, plus additional sponsors and everybody else coming into the city of St. Angelo in April of 2027. Now, why is that important? Well, April of 2027, that's that's how long it takes to get a lot of these groups. Now, we're not getting I can't call up an association today and say, "Hey, would you come and have a a meeting in St. Angelo or a convention in St. Angelo?" A lot of them are planning two and three years in advance. We were asked to submit an RFP on a specific event uh that'll take place in 2028. Unfortunately, due to their regulations, their requirements, uh we needed 175 person hotel, full service hotel for that group. We didn't have that right then. So unfortunately we had to kind of run away from that RFP. We hate to do that but that's how far out that was was even to 2028. So again with with regard to our reach and as far as the marketing piece of this you know when you hear marketing you hear advertising. A lot of people equate them to be the same. They are not the same. Our marketing reach is well beyond just our standard ads. It is our sales efforts. It's our promotional efforts. It's everything that we do on a daily basis. I have a team of roughly three people with Linda Brell in the visitor center who does a phenomenal job for anybody that walks in the door. I have John Agatti out on on the sales force as well and Carter Row who just recently joined us. They are out selling St. Angelo at every opportunity. It doesn't matter where they are. That's what they're doing. But as far as our advertising goes, we're sticking with the keys for the most part. We stay within our realm. We know where these people are being touched in terms of our ads and therefore we put our placements into those areas. Longer longer the

[1:04:40] years of the kayakers on the river. That's not a bad ad campaign, but we wanted to do something different. We wanted to make a splash this particular year. This year for 2025, we have done full page highquality ads where in years past we would do third page ads, do multiple of them. We decided to narrow our focus. this the shotgun approach was not working. So we went after specific markets. We have seen dividend returns on that by a large number and I'll show you when we talk about targeted ad distri uh attribution. Part of your paperwork or part of your packets that you have is a website attribution report for you that we use through datafy. We targeted ads using datafy this year to actually get people interested in coming and then also be able to track whether or not they did come. I know that sounds kind of strange. When you put an ad out in a in a magazine or a newspaper, you have no idea really whether a person came because of that ad, but what you can see with that that website attribution report is they interacted with the ad. They went straight to our website and on behalf and because of that, they came to this city. Now, it could have been they were driving down the road trying to find something to do as they were headed to Albuquerque. Totally fine. We don't care. Bottom line is they saw our ad. they came to the city of St. Angelo and they spent a night in our hotel or multiple nights in our hotels. That's our goal. That's what we're after and that's why this targeted ad uh attribution is is so key to us. And then finally, we have continued our partnership with uh Dylan Hancock, uh Joel Braden Harris, and Ty Harris for 2025. All three of these young men are likely to go back to the NFR unless something strange happens in the next 28 days. Uh, all three of these young men will be back in Las Vegas wearing that brand on their shirts every single night, everywhere they go. And I don't know how much your social media acumen is, but everywhere I turn, that's all I see. Every time you turn on, if you pull up

[1:06:42] Instagram, Facebook, whatever it is, these three are out there promoting us in every way possible. And we couldn't be more thankful to have them as part of our team. So, with that, I'll entertain questions. Jeremy, I'll just start off with going. It's I'm glad to hear DMO does a very important thing as far as recruiting those events that come here. Yes, sir. >> Like the judges convention. Those are core things that bring people in. And it's when there's a multiplier of how much a person spends a day, including hotels and meals. These things add up really quick. It's not really to the city's huge financial advantage other than a little bit of tax revenue and sales tax, but what it does provide to all the local businesses is almost immeasurable. It is the hotels, the restaurants, the convenience stores as you roll through this whole thing. We're all, and I'll use this word again, very interdependent upon what you do at the DMO. And I want to say thank you for for targeting what we do. I I sometimes think we get carried away and we do a lot of things good. I want to focus on the few things that we can do exceptionally well. Supporting this and going out with our DMO the way you do is something I've seen a lot of focus the past couple years that you've stepped in. I want you to say I appreciate it. With that, I'll open it up to the DA should anybody have any questions. I'll start down here with Mary. >> Thank you, >> Karen. Thank you, Jeremy. >> Thank you, >> Patrick. >> Hello, Jeremy. Um, so we've kind of got two parts here with the DMO from what Steve was talking about and then what you're talking about. I kind of want to go back to those KPIs on that. Is that better for you? Is that better for Steve? >> I'm good with whatever you want to do. >> Is that all right? >> See if I can. >> So I want to make sure we stay on topic for what's on the DMO agenda item versus what was on the chamber. And those two can't be >> Well, no. I mean, this is it was about the >> DMO KPI. Okay. Okay. Okay. Just to make sure. >> Yeah. Yes. Um, I mean, my deal was it's it's going to be So, I've got a kid in you sports. You sports is a big deal to

[1:08:44] me. I think you sports is a multi-billion dollar industry. >> Yes. >> On one of them you had uh Yeah. So, six sports tournaments and six events at city- owned facilities. Are those considered the same or those separate? >> Those will we'll consider those separate. Sports tournaments for us are going to be completely separate from booking events at city-owned facilities. Okay. Uh, I I think that's extremely low. I mean, why are we shooting so low on that when there's 52 weekends a year and kids are gone somewhere every weekend? >> So, I'll speak to that for you. One one reason why we've shot a little bit low. Uh, I did reach out to the Abene CBB, okay? So, that everybody I mean, we'll we'll use full transparency here. I reached out to the Abalene CBB knowing that they have the Dodge Jones, okay? They have a large indoor youth facil uh youth sports facility that we currently do not have. When I looked at their specifics, I asked Rob specifically for how many events they book within that particular venue on an annual basis, they're booking anywhere from 11 to 14 since 2023 when that building was essentially, we'll call it profitable. Okay. So, from that point to now, they're only booking up to 14 events a year with that type of facility. We don't currently have that facility. So my idea was to say we'll come back and say we can do our outdoor youth sports where we have baseball, softball, soccer. We have a lot of those facilities. However, we don't have the ability to host a large volleyball or basketball tournament other than through the schools. That's the only place that we can host those currently. Doesn't mean that's always going to be there, but that's the reason for the kind of a low number. I will tell you that the total number of room nights being a little bit smaller when you look at his again you look at his totals that's an average that's an average of those events those tournaments that they host on an you know all the way through the year it's an average of about 250 room nights per event so it's a little low we'd like to see it higher obviously I'm going to do everything that I can to

[1:10:45] make it higher my kids did the same thing I mean we traveled from here to San Antonio here to Austin here to Fort Worth here to McKenna everywhere you can think of and and we'd play in convention centers to high school gyms. It didn't matter. We want that here, but we've got to have the facility in order to be able to do it. >> I agree with you on that and that's yeah, that's something I'm looking at as well. That's what uh to me that's a low number for a city of our size, but yeah, it may be tough to do with our facilities that we have. Um, so how do we how do we we spent a lot on the Texas big sports complex back when it was done, you know, years ago. And I know from some of the people that have talked to me that have come there and host tournaments, it's started running down some, so they're going elsewhere. What is it going to take to fill that more? That it's a great question, Patrick. So, one of the challenges we have, like anything, we've got to build the relationships with these different sporting events, and we have not done that up until now. This budget will allow us to go after uh those different associations and events by building those relationships. And it's a long-term process. I've done this several times. Uh and you got but we've got to start. And so this coming year, we've budgeted close to $20,000 to go out and start recruiting and building relationships with the youth sports, whether it's soccer, softball, baseball, volleyball, basketball. But you've got to show up at their events. you got to show up at their me their their meetings and associations to build those relationships. And then to your point, as we continue to develop and refurbish what we have, we continue to have a stronger selling point to these to these groups. Uh obviously we've got the hotel rooms that are available. And so now we've just got to build the relationships and then also start promoting the facilities that we have with the idea that we may have new things coming uh that can attract these groups and to these tournaments basically to come here. >> Can I make one more comment on this just

[1:12:48] for edification on this? When when we were talking about the outdoor sport uh sports complex, Texas Bank Sports Complex, a week after the flood, that facility was, as we all know, hit pretty hard with water. We hosted, I say we, the city hosted, I'm not saying DMO, the city hosted the All-Stars tournament for the Girls Youth Fast Pitch Association. It was outstanding. I would like to commend our parks and recck group because they truly went out and made those fields playable in a time where quite honestly we didn't necessarily have the resources to do it, but they stepped up. They took it upon themselves to make sure that that event could take place. Uh I think we counted 2,000 girls, 20 teams, and that was outstanding. That's I mean or 200 team, excuse me, 200 teams, not 20 teams, 200 teams were here in this town spending time in our hotels, but also getting to play on our facilities. So, I think that I think you're on the right path. I think we have exactly what we need for now. I'd like to see that grow, and that's the reason why we're keeping this number where it is for now until we get to the point where we can promote it and market it better. this uh I mean if I looked at it right correctly we're doubling our budget is roughly or is not looking right from 900 and then adding a million to it. >> Not doubling. No. >> Are we just increasing to that amount? >> It's an it's an increase of 10,000. Okay. >> I mean excuse me 100,000. >> That's what Yeah, that's what I was asking. So if it was a double or if that's just increasing that >> No, just 100,000. >> Do we know roughly u like how many sports tournaments were done in the last year? >> I can go back and pull it for you. I know that we participated in at least four that we held or we at least helped host here in town. >> Yeah. >> Um and I know some of them when I've talked to um the hot tax and and that's going back to this a little bit. Is any of that going to be available to those tournaments to help bring them here? That's what some of them talked to me. They're like, "Well, Midland, Abling, whoever, they give us some of that hot tax money to help it." >> And we do as well. We have a sports incentive fund that we utilize currently

[1:14:50] and that's where we promote that and bring those groups in. >> Perfect. Thank you. >> Yes, sir. >> Perry, just a real quick comment. Uh I would like to see the on this particular contract that we take that clawback and and allow them to bring it back to the council to tell us what they're going to do with it. and that way we make sure that it's aligned with what the state law says and everything. Uh before I was on council, I was involved on the other side because I was part of the convention and visitors bureau at the time when we negotiating first time with with Michael Lane. So I know about the clawback. I've been on both sides of that. We want one one thing though as I want to say uh on this 100,000 and I know comes out of hot tax but it's still sales tax money or still tax money in your KPIs. Are we going to be able to see enough room nights to make that up? >> I think we will. And and I'll tell you why I think that we will with the datafy analytics that we've done so far. Just to give you an idea of that with those targeted ads, we've seen a rough we've seen roughly 4,800 attributable trips, meaning that they touched our website and came to this city. The estimated economic impact just on that particular targeted advertising campaign is a little over $680,000. So, just out of that one little targeted ad that we're doing now, we're seeing that that return is coming back already. Uh, I don't think that we will have any trouble at all recouping the additional 100,000 if we're marketing properly. If we're doing what we need to do, we've got to make a website that's more engaging. Uh, currently our website has been the same roughly for the last five to seven I think it's been seven years

[1:16:51] since we did a a complete refresh. Uh, it's time it's it's time to to up that up that game a little bit. Make it more mobile friendly because again, we know that people are not just sitting at home looking at a computer. We got to give them something that draws them here. You don't come here by accident. You're you're coming to St. Angelo on purpose and and so when you're coming here, we want to give you that that an idea of what you're you're coming into. >> Thank you, Jeremy. >> Yes, sir. >> Mr. S, questions. Do we work with the school districts local and surrounding that to kind of piggy back off what Patrick's saying that there's quite a few tournaments that they'll have as well and like if wall had one they're going to have to stay in St. Angelo. >> Yes sir. >> And and we do um we are limited in what we can offer in terms of incentives to those groups um just because of the the situation that that even the UIL has uh out there. But as far as servicing those groups, absolutely 100%. The need of Illinois tournament that was here a couple of weeks back, uh, we helped host that. But when I say helped host it, it was just a servicing. We were providing blocks of rooms for those groups. We don't count that as a sale. We count that as a service. >> That's also good advertisement for just the city as a a whole. >> Absolutely. Same thing with ASU. >> Same thing with the recck department. anytime we've got anything like that. That's a that's a big part of what we're doing out there is is trying to be that community advocate for youth sports. >> Okay, that's all I had. It >> seems to me that you you referenced it, I think, Tom, uh a little earlier. If not, it is in the uh caption for the for the item that um this this document be negotiated by the city manager. Um it seems to me there is a group now that uh I know has met with them in the past. Maybe rather than us negotiating that right here, right now, we provide Daniel the direction that we would like to see him go with the

[1:18:52] contract and let them flesh out whatever those details may need to be in concert with city attorney to make sure that we are doing what needs to be done in keeping with the the laws for hot tax funds. So that that that's my comment with respect Mayor, if I could pile on with Tommy, uh we're shooting for an October one implementation date for the new agreement uh uh for the DMO also. And the quickest way to get the the information to the city attorney to develop the documents is to empower the city manager to uh give him direction for what he wants. >> And so I would agree with that >> and that's why the items on the agenda the way it is at this point. So, I know that the request for 1,49,000 is about 100,000 more. It's about 10% more than we did last year. But I do want to point out though um that previous years we just haven't made adjustments either. So, it's just kind of a justified request. I don't have an issue council members with that request. I think the KPI is going to be key for us. Again, goes back to what I said earlier, right? Uh this performance is going to be key for all of us because sales tax revenues, hot monies, it's really really important for the city. So, uh, yeah, Tommy definitely would love to be able to negotiate that, look at the KPIs, make sure that we're good with the KPIs that we may tweak it, maybe request a little bit more than what's being presented at this point, but regardless, uh, just given an opportunity to negotiate the contract, we can get something hopefully by the by 10:1 and get that going and rolling on that. >> So, we'll need a read on what dates for this to be approved by October 1. We can actually do it on u we can we can do it on the first meeting in o in October but also again make sure that we retro back as far as the contract itself to the 1 of the the 1st of October. Correct. >> Yeah. We can make the effective date of the contract October one. >> Well, you know, we've done this one before. We've approved it on this one

[1:20:54] and made changes to it in the second reading >> which I'm with. Well, I mean, but we have, as we say, we're talking about the KPIs, not the dollar amount. >> Whatever council wants. If you give Daniel direction today, I don't think this has to come back. >> Yeah. I I I think if you allow Daniel to negotiate, execute with the main terms of the amount start date, I think you're good approving the contract today. And I mean, I know the carryover will adjust that provision in the new contract, but as to the existing >> 17,000, I mean, I think we just need to look at um their financials and what that would be used for and make sure it's appropriate. But >> I'm with everybody. So, we'll take a vote today to approve the contract. Is that correct? >> Yes, sir. >> And then give Daniel the authorization to tweak the KPIs as we see. Well, and it sounded like Daniel, it sounded like you might even if if they could uh see the need if they saw the need for even a little more uh funding. It I don't want to put words in your mouth that that you might even increase that some. So, >> well, the funding right now, the request of the million49,000 I think is fine in itself. What I'm saying though is that the request is not unjust. Again, because of the past several years, we haven't made an adjustment right now. So, it's a 10% increase. And over the years, uh, justifiably, they could have been asking for a 3% adjustment on an annual basis. They didn't do that. They're coming forth now saying, uh, 10% increase gets us to 100 1,49,000. That gives us the money that we need to really perform at the KPIs we're presenting. I'm good with that. It's just a matter of of ironing out the KPIs and also making sure that the um, anything as far as clawback that's coming back or any carryovers kind of meets what the city is doing. Anyway, uh those those have to be justified. Anything that has that can carry over needs to be justified. And I agree with Harry that that should be also an item that comes back to city council for justification. With with that in mind, with that in mind, then a motion to present or to approve as presented would include

[1:22:57] direction to Daniel for the 1049 and change and the KPIs as discussed >> and then a bring back of the 17,000. >> So move. >> So I have a first from Harry Thomas and I have a second from Karen Hessie Smith. Is there any public comment? Now, is everybody clear on the motion? All those in favor say I. I. >> Any opposed? >> None opposed. Item B with subs one and two passes 70. We'll move on to item C. considering awarding ESO325 Chadron Street phase B project to Reese Albert Incorporated for base bid volume one base bid volume two and alterate alternate 2 volume 2 in the amount of 13,288,2426 contingent on text dot concurrence and authorizing city manager to negotiate and execute all related documents presentation made by operations director the Patrick Freric. All right, good morning mayor and council. Um, we are finally going to be doing Chadburn phase B. Do you have any questions? >> I'm liking it. I'm liking it. >> Thank you. I'm I'm ready to get started. >> We don't want to delay it any longer. So, no. Uh, uh, for real, we are very excited to finally move into Chadburn phase B. This has been on our docket for a long time now. Um, and we got the plans done, finally got the funding all all lined up and uh, we got it for got it out to bid and received those bids. So, just a little bit of background um, to catch us all back up. We did Chadburn phase A back in April of 2020. And what that was, that was a full storefront to storefront rehabilitation of everything, the sidewalks, the streets, the lighting, amenities, everything in there. And I think anyone that has been down Chadburn phase A can

[1:25:00] absolutely testify to what that has abs what that has done for our downtown. It has completely transformed um that particular corridor in a in a great way and we see the economic benefit of that as well. So just again a little reminder of what that phase A was. Um, we threw in a bunch of stuff into that project to really bring some vibrancy back into that corridor and back into downtown. Um, it it brings life, it brings some creativity and it brings some aesthetics to that area. Um, that is very important for economic growth um, for visitors experience, the citizens experience down that corridor. We really wanted to incorporate that and I think we hit that nail on the head whenever we did that chabber phase A. Chadurn phase B is going to be a continuation of phase A. So we are finally going to finish that corridor all the way to the loop. So from loop 306 all the way down to the river uh to the bridge at the river, you're going to see a cohesive design um that is going to extend what we did in phase A all the way through that corridor. So you have that same design element, that same feel throughout that corridor. And we expect to really this to be the catalyst for the development that we saw in phase A to continue in phase B from a reinvestment, revitalization of of that entire corridor. It is going to be the same thing, a storefront to storefront rehabilitation of all the sidewalk and the pedestrian elements as well as incorporating those features, you know, like bike racks and lighting and um new trash cans and artwork and and all the amenities that you see and that we love in that first phase. So, we went through, we got the design done, and we published that bid um ESO325 um in July 30th of 25. We got it back. We did receive two bids on phase B. Uh Taisac Construction, who was the

[1:27:03] contractor for phase A, and Reese Albert, Inc., our local uh construction firm here. Reese Albert was the lowest overall bidder um for that and they met all the criteria that we needed that we we requested for the bid. This bid was a little unique in that as part of the funding for the bid um we have a a TASA grant that was distributed through Tex. So if you all remember we received an $18.4 $.4 million grant um from Techtop for a pedestrian and sidewalk corridor all the way through throughout St. Angelo. And working with Techtop, we were able to break that into two phases. Phase one, which is phase B, Jabber Street, phase B, and phase two, which is the rest of that that sidewalk element. So, this is going to be using that that TASA grant. And that TASA grant is actually going to pay for every pedestrian amenity in phase A. So, a little over a little over $4 million is going into that TASA grant um funding. Um that's money that the city would have had to pay. Um but because we were awarded that grant now, Text the FA the state and the fed federal money is going to pay for that portion. We have a matching component of it, but we have that covered through the generosity of our TEI board. Um they gave us the matching component for those elements. The only thing that is going to be coming out of the city coffers, if you will, is going to be coming from the street bond funds, and it is only the roadway portion of the project. So, a total of the project is going to be $13.2 million. Um, the actual bid amount was 12.7 and we have $500,000 of contingency that we're asking council to award as part of this award. We know with these projects, especially one of this scale and of this scope, that there's going to be some changes that need to be made throughout the way, we want to be have that flexibility and that funding set aside to cover that. Um, as we go through all those changes as part of the grant application, all everything that we do, everything that

[1:29:05] we change has to not only go through council if it meets the correct criteria, but it also has to go through text for their concurrence. Um we have an estimated timeline working with the contractor of about 24 months to get this done. It is a few more blocks than phase A was. So there will be a little bit of extra time. Um the good thing is is we learned a lot of lessons on phase A. That was our first time going through a project of that magnitude. Um so we as staff got to learn a lot. I think Reese Albert also was you know they had their eye on the project and they they observed a lot. They are um you know, in our opinion, respected contractors. They know what they're doing. So, we expect this 24-month time frame to be well within the the amount of time that we can get that full corridor done. >> Patrick, let me stop you right there. How many are we waiting on Reese Albert for any existing projects that are in line? >> Excuse me. Um Reese Albert is working for us on on a project right now. They are doing the 29th the Edming Glenner project on that. Right. Um we don't expect that to impact this Chadurn phase A project though. Uh again the way that construction projects worked everything works in phases. Uh we do have the underground amenities done already on Chadurn Street. So we don't have to take care of that part of the project. That's always the frustrating part is people see us start and there's a whole lot of of time and work that has to be done underground that gets buried and you know the citizens feel like oh they they're just not getting anything done. In this project though you will actually see a little bit visually see more progress quicker in a more timely manner. still going to phase it in like we did the first phase where we do block byb block and we allow access to those businesses working with the businesses letting them know what's coming up what the time frames are again lessons learned from phase A we're going to be incorporate incorporating that into phase B to have that minimal impact but still get a pretty amazing project

[1:31:08] completed >> and that's one of my main concerns as on council we're all going to get phone calls from some business owners you know you're parked out in front of me I can't get in my door I hope that we maintain the proper amount of time that we learned from the first project to give notices as we always do, but I'm just giving heads up to everybody on council. We'll get phone calls and you know, they'll be in front of Meyers, they'll be in front of House of Chemicals, they'll be in front of everything up and down the street. We just need to be prudent and we're all going to back the team here, get it done, but as quickly and fast as we can. I do have an issue a lot of time with contingencies. I think that throws the number out that just allows you to mark it up to whatever you want to use the total contingency. I don't know if there's a way to regulate that. I'm sure there's not. That's just a pet peeve. I'm just whining. It's all done now. Go ahead with the rest of your presentation. >> I think that was that's pretty much wrapping it up. I think we all know what phase A looks like. We're looking at wrapping that up on on phase B, getting that continuation done. Um, again, to your point, we're going to be working with those those property owners. And I think the big key is there is is to be honest. I think one of the one of the downfalls pitfalls that we had with Taisac in that first phase is we threw out a timeline that was extreme uh extremely short and we missed it and that caused us a lot of constrnation. Um the second part of it is is we had a con a a consultant doing the actual inspections of that project and so we were relying on them um to be kind of our liaison in our face. We're not going to do that this time. The city is going to be inspecting and monitoring that project. that we will have our own people be the face and the representative of the city on this project as well. >> Well, and I appreciate you, Patrick, and I don't want that misunderstood. I have a priority of using local contractors to the fullest extent we can, but I think as it's city and taxpaying dollars here, we need to be prudent on what's allowed to happen and what I think our cost overruns are. >> Absolutely. >> With that, I'll open it up to the das any questions. Mary >> Karen, >> can we talk about taking us out to the coliseum, right? It's coming. Thank you, Patrick. This is exciting.

[1:33:10] >> Mr. Keley, >> question. >> Harry, >> I've already said what I did today. >> I doubt that, but anyway, on the Joe, >> utilities have already been updated in this. Yes, sir. >> Okay. So, yeah, it should move. >> It should move it a little bit quicker. >> Quicker. Okay. >> And and real quick, sorry. >> No, keep going. I thought you were done. I'm sorry. Is uh 500,000 I I'm kind of contradicting Tom. Is 500,000 enough on a contract this size? >> You know, typically we're >> chosen up for re-election. >> Yeah. >> For recall. >> Typically, we do run about a 10% contingency is what we plan for in our projects. But with this one, it just didn't feel right to have a $1.3 million contingency. So, we as staff sat down, kind of put pen to paper, looked at the design plans, looked at everything because we've been through this reiteration four or five times with text already. So, it has been pretty vetted by multiple eyes. We feel like 500,000 will be will be a good start for this project. >> I mean, don't get me wrong, I'm glad we're not using any more and that's great that y'all looked at it. So, that just was a question of last related to a lot of that underground infrastructure that we ran into. So, since that's been taking one question, are there are there any upper power lines that they're removing this time? >> They're going to be doing the same thing. any overhead power lines are going to be either run back in the alleys of the of the businesses or in condo and underneath the street. So, you won't see any of that up until you get to the S-curve by the transit district. The logistics of moving those power lines going underneath the loop it working with a we did meet with them on site and it's just it's a nightmare to try to get those moved under there. So, we made the concession that in that first leg of that corridor, those will be overhead, but it's because of the loop is is causing a problem there. >> Yeah, I'm I'm excited. I think you've done your research and that's good. Thank you, >> Eert. >> Well, I was going to say the same thing Joe did just to just to kind of jab the mayor a little bit, but we're we'll leave we'll leave that one alone. I assume, too, Patrick, you probably

[1:35:13] learned some things on College Hills Boulevard with some of those businesses along there. I know there's a couple of us at least sitting up here. I'm looking down at my friend Karen um that got hammered pretty good by some of those business owners. So, I'm assuming there's some some lessons we learned on College Hills that will help us on this project as well. >> We did. And and the difference between this project and College Hills is that actual work zone is going to be much much smaller. It's going to be a block at a time. And so, the access to those those uh businesses is going to be much more prudent. You're still going to have the side streets where you may have to walk around the corner of a block, but we do have the signage already prepared or we we are prepared to have the signage that says these businesses, list them by name within this block, are open for business. And you know, just market that as heavily as we can so that we have as little impact. There's going to be an impact on them. We know that it is with every construction project. It's the nature of what it is. But we do we are cognizant of that and we do try to minimize that as much as we can. I think to the extent we can get out in front with notifying them maybe a little sooner than rather than closer to anyway I think the communication part will be a key. >> Yeah, we've only been talking about this project a couple of days now. So, you know, no a few years. Everyone's well aware of it. Downtown St. Angelo and Monica are well aware of the project. So, they're they're going to be helping us out with that with that communication as well. So, we plan on making it as as less impactful on the businesses as we can. >> Mayor, with that, I'd move approval of this. >> Let me make sure. Daniel, if you got any comments you want on this, you got >> I'm good. I think that I just want to state what everybody already knows. You already called them the Patrick Feric. They do a great job. I mean, Shane Kelton, Patrick, and really organizing, really put this stuff together and the logistics of it, it can be an absolute nightmare. And they do such a wonderful job. So, thank you guys. All right, with that I have a first from Tommy Heert, a second from Karen Hessie Smith. >> One last question. >> Oh, we're going to have one more

[1:37:14] question that just popped up. >> So, we've got to the the start date. I'm I'm going to give you a um a general answer. So, we have the contract in Tex's hands. As soon as the text concurs with the contract, we'll get that executed. So, we expect a two-e turnaround on that. So, hopefully, again, we run into that holiday period, right? So, we're going to have to be kind of cognizant of when do we start, where do we start, how do we start running into that holiday period um around Thanksgiving and the Christmas time. So, I don't want to give you a solid answer right now, Karen, because there's some things that need to be worked out on that. But, we want to get moving as soon as we can, but with as little impact as possible. >> Sure. >> We've got our end date right within two years. >> Within two years. >> Yeah. You know what, Patrick? Go ahead and ask your question. I'm sorry. just because of that and that's such a draw for those businesses downtown. Do we think we should push it until after the Christmas holiday? >> So, let us work with Reese Albert to talk with them about what that phasing looks like um and go through again. You know, we started phase A around that Christmas time and we were aware of it. Um I think we actually pushed it where we started the big part of the project after um after the Christmas holidays. So, we need to talk with them, feel it out, and and really make a decision. We're going to do whatever is mo while we want to get it started, we also want to make sure that we're being being aware and being in stewards to our business owners along that corridor. >> Since we're so late in the year already, I mean, two months, I don't think would kill >> also talk to them like we did last time about certain blocks of time. For instance, during Christmas, if they've gone in and started the project, that's fine. They can get some of the stuff done. We'll talk to them about trying to keep that stretch open during certain times of the year so that that people can access from the front instead of going from the back. So we'll talk to them about that seasonal blip right there. >> Thank you, >> Mayor. Yes, sir. >> If I might one more time. >> Absolutely. >> 20 more 24 month project and I've been

[1:39:17] babysitting this thing for already about six years. I'd like to have an invite back when you do the ribbon cutting. >> You go. >> I think we want it done before he leaves. All right. We'd like to have it done before he leaves. >> All right, with that, I've got a first and a second. Any public comment, Heather? >> With that, I'll take a vote. All in favor say I. >> I. >> Any opposed? With none opposed, item C passes 70. >> All right. Thank you all. >> Don't go far. Patrick, consider authorizing an expenditure not to exceed 1.8 8 million in matching funds for the purchase of qualifying properties and related activities under the NRCS emergency watershed protection program and authorizing the city manager to negotiate and execute all related documents. Presentation made by operations director Patrick Frederick. All right. So, this is a followup from our present or my presentation that we gave to you guys um a couple about a month ago now. took us a little bit of time to find the funding and and to really work through the details through the NRCS so that we knew exactly what we were going to be facing on it. Um so again, a little bit of background. Um just to rehash real quick, the NRCS as an event as a result of the July 4th flooding has activated an emergency watershed protection program, an EWP program. Um again that catalyst of the July 4th flood at that meeting that we had on August the 5th um council authorized you us to participate in that actual program. We needed that authorization so we could let submit the letter of of interest to the NRCS. They've received that. They've acknowledged that they're going through their due diligence right now. Um and then we you also directed us to find some money for the matching portion of this. If you all remember, this program is a 7525% match or split with the NRCS where the city's on on the hook for 25% of the cost of that buyout program. >> Uh that should be 20%. >> 25%. 25. >> It is 25. Yes, sir. Most grants are 8020. This one is a 7525.

[1:41:21] >> My notes are 20. So, I'm sorry about that. >> No penalty. No. So, let me ask you this, Patrick. Are the properties approved already designated for this? >> No, they have not been. So, we've identified candidacy properties. We've turned that list over to the NRCS and they're doing their due diligence on those properties right now. That is not a finalized list, but the list extends beyond the amount of money that we're that we're advocating for today. So, let us work through that. Again, since this is a completely voluntary program, I don't know how many of those property owners that are on the list are going to be willing to engage with us in this process. So, um, we have a list of there's 75 properties that are touch actually touching the flood way. We use that floodway >> commercial properties included in that. >> Commercial properties are included in that. Yes, sir. very few of them, but the majority of them are residential properties um because they have the biggest impact and most of those there's obviously just more of those that are in the floodway. >> And I apologize I was that was the morning of the convocation. I was not here. Um my second question is does the future designation of the property is it restricted for what the property can be after we buy it out? >> Absolutely. Um it is it is restricted in perpetuity. It cannot have anything built on it. It cannot be sold. it cannot be um developed in any way that impacts the flood waters um that that would touch that property. That's not to say that we can't do something with it like nature trails or something to that extent. But as far as putting structures on the property, the properties will be specifically prohibited from that. That'll be in the actual title work that whenever it transfers to the city's ownership. >> So that is a non-negotiable. So, let's take if if there's a house somewhere that was on there that somebody falls into this program and it's surrounded by a lot of acreage, nobody could come in and improve that to make it, I'd say, uh, compatible and is able to change it. Is that titled and restricted like a PD

[1:43:24] that we can't a uh, >> if if there's a house on the property that we purchase through this program, we have to remove that structure. I'm with you. But I'm saying in 15 years if somebody comes back and they figure out a way with technology and ways to make that property safe to go and put property back, is that restricted there? >> I see even snaking towards the front >> legally on the title work. It's going to say yes. Now, >> yeah, I think change all the time have restrictions in the deed. So the title work's going to, you know, show that and unless those restrictions, >> that's good. I mean, that's a good safety factor, but I'm just saying beyond our council, beyond our terms, there may be other people that want to come in and say, uh, I know the house on Short Street that was Lake Short. I mean, that's a lot of acreage there that eventually can turn into something else. I would hate for it to just to be restricted by one house. >> Part of this program is on those larger lots, we don't have to take the entire lot. we can split that lot. Right. So, >> and some of those are I do have them listed as full or partial on the list. Um, some of those properties we we only need the back half of it. The front half is fully developable still. It it doesn't make sense for us to have that and restrict that entire property. I don't want to maintain the entire property if I don't have to. Amen. >> So, I only want to maintain what I need to to protect the floodway. >> Gotcha. You agree with that, Aaron? >> You walked up. I want to make it worth your trip. >> Yes. That's Aaron Vanoi, director of planning development services. We've identified this as kind of a step two process. They're step one, hopefully obtaining properties and then going through a zoning process after our comp plan comes through of saying, "All right, those properties really don't need to be redeveloped and having an overlay that says, okay, those can't be developed in perpetuity." That that also is just a second layer of protection. Obviously, there are properties that may still up being private owned, not city-owned. And so we'll have to take that into consideration when we go through with that process. But that's them getting through this pro process first. How many can the city obtain uh that helps out the entire city? And then

[1:45:26] the second is going through a zoning process. >> Okay. Well, I just sometimes you have those long-term, you know, we we need to look longer than what we have here and we don't want to handic, you know, handcuff ourselves with something the decision made in 2025 that might affect 35 or 40. With that, I'll open it up for questions. Mary? Um yes, Patrick wouldn't at the previous meeting council meeting you were saying that uh that that amount for those homes to for us to purchase those was at 12 million is what you'd estimated. Now 25% of that is 3 million not 18 1.8 million >> correct. >> So refresh my memory as to the difference in the numbers. So, working with finance, this is what we were able to identify today as money that could be allocated to this program if council wishes to allocate that. I fully expect us to keep looking at that budget, keep looking at those numbers and try to find that additional 1.2 um to go there um to get to that 25% cost share. There's also some things that we can do through this program that are non-monetary that would accommodate our match. So, it's going to be a game that we uh a coordination I don't want to call it a game, a coordination >> um to get there. But this 1.8 will give us a great leap forward to get those initial conversations started uh with those property owners that are interested in the program. >> Are there any grants available that could help us on that 25% help the city? >> It cannot be lo it cannot be leveraged with other federal money. Um excuse me. There is some there is some options and we're looking into that. uh you know right now the the NRCS this is the first time this local uh branch has has implemented this program as well. So we're kind of walking through it together as we can. There is we do have a resource um that is working out of Washington that's been in this program and she's been just a a super amazing resource for us as far as information is

[1:47:28] is concerned. But we're getting all those questions answered. The answer is maybe. >> Yeah. Um >> yeah. Is there has anyone in the Kurville area have they are there any other entities say Kurville other towns that are looking at this as well? And if so, what is the what's the feedback been on on those? If if you know >> I don't know so much from the Kurville area. I know that the county is participating as well in in this program. Um, so they're looking at a few properties, not exactly to the magnitude that we are because just our density is much more than theirs are. They're dealing with larger tracks. Um, but the county is I'm assuming this is a program that is activated statewide. So I'm sure we are not the only entities that's going in there. Again, there's an approval process. So once we identify the total amount of value that we need for the program, that's when there's an approval process that has to go through the Fed. They approve it. they allocate the money and then we move through it. So I if I'm looking on a um on a horizon, we're probably not starting conversations with property owners on buyout until the first of the year. >> Oh, okay. That's good. Have we looked at and I'm sure you will. I'm not trying to needle you on are there with Tom County working with this as well. Is there any chance for like a a force multiplier or anything with the county that we could, you know, help each other and piggy back and and not us take the full brunt of it that 3 million? >> No, all the 3 million are within the city limits. Okay. And so I mean that line really designates where they can spend their money and where we need to spend our money. So unfortunately that 12 million is is on us to accommodate as as far as the city's concerned. Now, if if we have some homes in there and those homeowners wish to not participate in this, I don't know if I dream this or what, but I don't are they going to be able to get permits to

[1:49:31] re rebuild or or just a real heavy update or are they just shot in the foot not being able to do anything? >> It really depends on the the specific location on their lot that they want to do something in. In a lot of cases, partial a part of their lot is in the flood way, part of it's in the flood plane. There's some accommodation that you can have in the flood plane that you do not get in the flood way. So, placement of structures, placement of homes, but even then sometimes that cost of of what you would have to do, raise elevation, etc., etc., is, you know, is cost prohibitive to do anything. >> So, this is kind there's no cookie cutter. >> There's not >> with any of this. >> There's not. It is going to be a specific property bypropy allocation, property bypropy project. >> Thank you. Thank you. >> Yes, ma'am. >> Karen, any questions? >> No, sir. >> Patrick, >> hello. Uh, just a couple simple ones. Um, no, I will kind of along with what she was saying. Um, I want to make sure, especially with Aaron on that, and make sure everybody's very clear that they don't have to sell, but if they don't, then they cannot build at least on that property. I want to make sure all that is very clear to them so that they don't think they're fleeced, >> right? Um, and especially in some of those areas, we're going to have language barriers as well. So, let's make sure we get um people to be able to go in and talk to them. And >> if once we get closer to that time when we get to start talking to individuals, we'll do a marketing campaign over that. I don't want to put a whole lot of information out right now and get a whole bunch of people, right, >> you know, excited about it and then say, well, in four months we'll do something. I would rather wait till it's, you know, right there and then we can start moving with those conversations as they're fresh. Absolutely. That's part of that marketing that we're planning on doing is kind of getting so that they have the full breadth of information so that they can make a decision what they want to do with their private property. >> And then on that too, we've got we've still got organizations and and funds coming in um privately, not city at all, that we don't want those to be go spend on a home, start to build it, and then figure out hope they can't, the city's going to buy it back. So, that's part of that if we'll just make sure we

[1:51:33] coordinate with them >> on on those properties. Um, and then on on our paper here, it says it's 8020. So, is it 8020 or is it 7525? >> It's 7525. >> Okay. Um, and is that math right? I'm just >> the background. The background does say 25 20%. It should not. It should say 25 1.8 for the city and then that's 6.4 for RCS. >> So, no. So, if let's go to the next slide. that I think would I've got a breakdown of and I don't. Um, so basically 1.8 for the city gets a 7.2 of NRCS money for a total of about $9 million in properties that we can go seek. Yeah, that's 25%. Um, all right. And then also it's it's more just point of clarification because a lot of misinformation got spread after the last meeting when we talked about this. This is not imminent domain. This is none of that. Is a completely voluntary program. Um, and it is us trying to help those that are not going to be able to rebuild that are in the floodways. >> It's an option that they can take that they can enact if they if they so choose to. >> Yeah. >> This is not a taking. We cannot force the hand in any way, shape, form, or fashion. It's strictly voluntary. They must sign a paper that opts into the program, which starts the discussion with that property owner on a buyout option. >> Perfect. Thank you. >> Yep. >> Patrick, you're asking like this is in your district or something or another. >> Any comments, Harry? >> I'm good. Mr. Self, >> uh, is this going to require a lot more work on y'all's part? >> You know, we figured we could do this while we were asleep. >> Yeah. >> No, it it absolutely will. Um, you know, this is not >> this is not part of our what I would call our our core service, um, you know, that we provide, but this is absolutely something that we need to do. Um, so we're going to figure it out. It's is going to take some more work on real estate. It is going to take some more work on our department. We're going to feel out that, you know, that that burden, work with Brandon, um, since he

[1:53:35] oversees the real estate side of it to see if we need to potentially hire some temp work to assist or there or contract some of that out. But there's likely going to be an expense to help accommodate staff just cuz we want this thing to move through quick. Even once we start the process, we do have a finite amount of time to actually get everything done from the time that it it from the word go. So, it's we don't have the luxury of dragging our feet, nor do we want to. We we need need some finalization for these property owners. >> And that that leads to my next question. Is there a time limit on when they can do this and when we can help them? So once we start the process and we enter into an agreement with them, we have 220 days to to fully negotiate it, fully vet it and remediate it. >> So within 220 days, they will receive their payment >> within the NRCS or the home or the property owner. >> That's the property owner. We have so full remediation, remove all structures, recondition it, the property, everything is 220 days. So we can't do any of that work till we actually own the property. So, it's going to move fast. >> Is there a time limit with the NRCS for the applicants to do this program? >> I don't know. Once So, once we turned in our letter, the NRCS has 60 days from the time that they receive that letter to do their due diligence on the properties that we've turned in. Once they approve that property, that's the check mark that that property's approved for for conversation. Okay. >> So after that, short of any environmental remediation or anything that comes up in our due diligence after that um it's it's ready to go. >> Okay. >> He good. >> So as we move forward this and I I appreciate Patrick's passion in this, but number one, this all started with a call from Carly Stevens at NRCS. Reached out the third day into the disaster and was, "Hey, come meet with me to talk about the program." got them in touch

[1:55:36] with y'all on the fourth day and you moved it moved it forward very fast. I appreciate that. But it's my understanding once they agreed to participate, they're done with the property. The owner will be in and out and a lot of those values are going to be based upon the 2025 appraisals correctly. >> Pre flood, >> not the uh pre flood values. I need people to understand that. Um >> and that that was a big question. But with that, I'll look for uh has anybody got any further questions? I have a first from Patrick >> and a second from Karen Hessie Smith. Any public comment? >> With no public comment, we'll take a vote. All in favor say I. >> Any opposed? Item D passes. 70. >> All right. Thank you. >> You bet. Let's move in item E. We're running a little behind track today. Um, first reading and public hearing of an ordinance for a text amendment to chapter 2 administration and personnel article 2.07 boards, committees, and commissions division 11 public art commission section 2.07. 07.161 creation members and section 2.07.162 duties to provide for additional commission membership qualifications and duties providing for severability and providing for effective providing for and effective date presentation made by Carl Watt. >> Yes, this item has fairly simple changes to the ordinance regarding the public art commission. Because it is an ordinance change, it does require two readings. The first one being on the regular agenda and I can go into the changes but they're fairly simple. This all this all goes back to the San Angel cultural affairs council. In the past they had the city went into agreement with them annually gave them some hot fundings hotel occupancy tax funds and they used those funds to grant to performing arts groups in St. Angelo the symphony the ballet etc. The St. Angel Cultural Affairs Council dissolved last year. Late last year, the city picked up the torch and finished running with it and brought it to council and we did the

[1:57:39] allocations and the agreements with the performing arts groups. So, we debated what should we do following that. And where we landed on was city staff would coordinate the process. We'd send out the applications. would send out the guidelines and folks could apply, submit those applications, and then the public art commission would review those applications, score those, meet on those, and then recommend allocations that would come to council for approval. A few meetings ago, Mr. Yuki Kunyuki with the St. Angel Performing Arts Coalition spoke to council, I think during general comment, public comment, and he recommended that since the public art commission was getting involved in this, that maybe we should look at having someone who's involved in visual performing arts on the commission. I thought that was a great idea. He made a good point. So, I took a step back, looked at the ordinance, and the result was um some recommended changes to the ordinance. So we took that to the public art commission at the meeting last week and they recommended moving forward with these changes. So basically uh I could read these or I can just tell you the gist of it is is that we would add or it states under creation of members to the extent available the city council shall appoint to the commission at least one member who is a teacher or professor of art visual visual or performing arts. We took out a reference to the cultural affairs council because it no longer exists. So at least one member who is a member of the St. Angelo Museum of Art of Fine Arts or a local art organization and there are several in town modified it to read at least one member who is a visual artist. Added a line that states at least one member who is a performing artist. And the rest of that section remained unchanged. And then only other change was

[1:59:41] um this doesn't involve the hot allocations and all but since we the art commission does part of their duties reviews the placement of art we added to state evaluating and making recommendation of art that is proposed for donation to the city or for temporary display. I added that part temporary display because some of what the public art commission looks at is temporary art. The PETA sheep was one example. And then I thought about adding some explicit language about the role of the public art commission reviewing these applications. But since there already is this phrase assisting with related projects which the city council directs it to investigate, study, and make recommendations on from time to time that's in there. It's pretty broad. It could include that that role of reviewing those. Um I didn't add any explicit language regarding that. So, those are the ch recommended changes. >> What I know is you have brought us a something that was brought up by Yuki to add some performing arts people on here. You've cleaned it up. You've made it very clear on what needs to be on the board. I thank you for doing that. It was Yuki didn't make that request like less than a month or two ago. I think it was very good. Do we have any questions from council? Be >> interesting to see how it works. I have a first from Harry Thomas, >> second >> and a second from Karen Hessie Smith. >> Any public comment? >> With no public comment, we'll take a vote. All those in favor say I. >> I. >> Any opposed? >> So, this will come back ne at the next meeting on the agenda. >> Yes, sir. >> Item passes 70. Item F, first reading and public hearing of an ordinance amending the budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2024 and ending September 30th, 2025 for onetime funding of projects and equipment and short-term debt made by the finance person, Miss Deerski. >> Hi, Tina Deerski, director of finance. Good morning, mayor and council. Um, so you had these budget amendments in your background. You also saw part of this in

[2:01:43] our budget workshops as well. These are some onetime funding sources um that were needed. Um the first one is for a portable building for the police department at $250,000. Second one for body armor at $100,000. Um ammo at $50,000. Um police department districting map at $15,000. Uh the uh police department external evidence audit at $75,000 and additional equipment replacement in the amount of $250,000. and then the grid smart detection cameras for public works in the amount of $48,000. Um, you did also see in a previous presentation that we would be funding $360,000 for the safer grant if we are awarded it and then $1.2 million for the city fuel site. Um, those will come back to you in a later amendment when we're ready to go forward with those. Um, additionally, there's a budget amendment for the short-term debt for the taxi way at the airport. with that. You brought something back to us that we've all seen and gone over. I think next time maybe itemize it, Tina, because we're all kind of looking here for paperwork, but it's something we've already seen. We already agreed to. >> Yeah. And it was in your background. I'm sorry we didn't have any slides. Um, yep. Next time we'll definitely have slides. >> It's all good with that. Any questions from council? >> Move to approve. >> I do have a question. >> Mary's got a question. Mary, >> I understand the be the best practices being putting this and amending the current year budget. And these are one time only deals. This is just one of the 18 calls that I had I got this weekend. Why can't we put why can't we add that to the to our next budget? I mean, what is the >> I mean, I understand it, but I would like to hear the >> You will not um add one-time funded sources to an annual operating uh budget because there it's not an ongoing expense that you would include in a budget, >> right? I understand that we >> the only reason we can do these is because we had excess um fund balance and sales tax surplus. So, we don't know

[2:03:47] that until the end of the year how much we're going to have available. And so when we as we go throughout a a a fiscal year, we're constantly getting requests from um departments on one-time funding uh capital projects or assets. Um and so we kind of keep an ongoing list of those and at the end of the year when we determine if we have monies available to help them fund those projects that they need, then we come back to city council and ask if we can do that. >> That's our little rainy day pig pig piggy bank deal. Yes, ma'am. >> What is the surplus? Um we had I think just under $5 million in um the surplus general fund balance and then we had over a million dollars in sales tax surplus. >> So six roughly six million left over. And what was the total on these this request that you >> um >> and we're going to double check this just to hope you no sweat no pressure >> approximately just a little under 800,000 on these ones. That's doing the math in my head. But >> you're welcome. >> With that, I got a first from Harry Thomas. Can I get a second? >> Second. >> Second from Tommy Heert. Any public comment? >> With no public comment, I'll take a vote. All in favor of item F, say I. >> I. >> Any opposed? With none opposed, item F passes 70. We'll move in the G. Second reading and public hearing of an ordinance adopting the budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2025 and ending September 30th, 2026. This budget will raise more total property taxes than last year's budget by $5,716,170, which is 9.7%. And of that amount, $861,795, let me flip over the paper, is tax revenue to be raised from new property added to the tax role. Presentation by finance director Tina Derski. >> Thank you, Mayor. Tina Derski, director of finance. Um, again, as you just said, this is the second reading and public hearing of the 2026 budget, and we will conduct a separate record vote to ratify

[2:05:51] the property tax revenue increase. Um, the total operating revenues citywide is 242 million and total operating expenditures at 241 million. Um, leaving revenue over expenditure of $1.4 million. Again, what was funded in this budget before you today? Um, some items for public safety, professional development and training and software package increases for the police department, overtime and fire apparatus for the fire department, um, additional animal service officers, and addition animal services rescue services, software upgrades for HR planning and the website, retiree insurance, and 5% raises for employees. With that, I'll ask for a record vote on the adoption of the budget. >> So, this is for item G, correct? Heather, how do you want this to proceed? >> Um, well, first you'll need a motion and a second, and then you'll just take a record vote going individually down the dis with a a yay or a nay. >> Okay. So, I'll need a motion. I'll need a first. >> First by >> I'm not sure. Sorry. I don't I don't know if >> when I can insert this. I'm not going to vote yay or nay until I have some questions. So, I don't know what the protocol is when you're about to go into a record vote if there can be uh >> you would definitely want to get any questions that you have. Um if that's going to help you know. >> Do you have more questions for Tina and Mary? Do >> Okay. >> I thought I'm sorry. I thought you had them with your first round. >> Okay. Well, after 18 phone calls this weekend, I do have additional questions and I think I owe it to the citizens to uh reflect on that. >> Please do. >> U this it is a tax increase, right? It's not just a increased budget amount, but it is a tax increase. >> There is a tax rate increase that you'll see on the next agenda item. Um as we've discussed in the past, we've been talking about this actually throughout

[2:07:52] this last probably six or eight months. um that is almost entirely related to the coliseum bond referendum that the voters did approve. Um 4 cents of the increase the the total increase was 0.43 I believe. I don't I'm not on that item yet. Um but it was almost entirely due to the coliseum bond referendum that the voters did approve. Um and when we went to the voters with that bond referendum, we told them it would be a 4.7 cent increase. the valuations came in a little better than expected and so we actually didn't even have to increase to what the voters approved. >> Well, of that 9.67 >> 5.33 is for the coliseum.86 is for the new properties that were added throughout the year and then the 3.5% is u maintenance and operating. Mhm. >> Also, the only wiggle room we have in there is that M, right? >> The MC increase to 3.5% based on new valuations coming in to allow it to increase to that amount without going to the voters for a tax rate increase. >> Right. It goes below that new uh >> new revenue and the uh >> right after the voter approval rate. Yes, ma'am. >> Okay. And I realize that we went through this on the budget and we agreed. I just feel compelled as we there were seven people up here that represent a 100,000 people and that's why I take their phone calls very seriously and this may just be a matter of clarification. Um and looking at all that we increased the taxes 13% last year is what we what we did. Um reducing 1% of >> there's a difference between increasing the tax rate and increase to property tax revenue. >> Right. >> The increase to property tax revenue is a result of increased valuations, right? >> Not necessarily a change in the tax rate. Well, the tax rate did increase on

[2:09:55] them last year and we we're capped at three and a half% uh and and I'm I'm well aware of how that goes. The I really the concerns they have and I know the flood has nothing to do with valuation for going in this year has nothing to do with the tax rate. We now are looking at a possible $100 million capital investment as as per Steve Elenus's report. We don't have to ratify this today. We can do seven days later, which would be next Tuesday the 9th, without having any kind of legal ramifications or slowing down or messing up any processes. I feel we owe it to the citizens to for another look during this week maybe at compromises whether it be phased in increases uh I would hate to reduce the 5% going to our employees I just feel like it may or it deserves a better look even though the flood doesn't have anything to do with the rates as I first stated it does have it does affect the citizens 's ability to pay these increases. And for some it may not, you know, that 140 a year, that might not make a difference. >> Those, >> but it does to it does to them, >> those that were impacted by the flood. There is property tax relief for them and they can apply to the appraisal district for that. Um, and they will be exempted um for the remainder of the tax year um at a rate equal to one half of the tax year. So there are opportunities for them to to be provided property tax relief. >> There are opportunities situation. >> Uh you didn't take the 18 phone calls >> and I'm I I just like I wasn't hurt by the flood. Thank God. None of us were or most of us

[2:11:59] hopefully were not. But those that may not be directly affected if they but they still got four or five inches of rain. I just there the citizens perception is their reality and I I think it's a small effort to take this week and get the information that I request from Steve to see if that what the feasibility and the effect that it could have on this coming 's budget. It may not move the needle at all, but I think it's worth looking at because prior to till today, I did not know about that 100 million. And I don't think it's a a big ask for us to look at it on on the behalf of our citizens. >> Well, the budget that's being presented to you today um reaches the 3 and 12% cap that the state has already limited our ability to provide services to our citizens. Right. >> They are currently looking at a 2.5% cap which would even further limit our abilities to provide services to our citizens. At some point we're going to look at cutting services. Um so I don't think that at this point in time is a good time to not go to the full 3 and a half% that the state allows. Um because we really need that revenue to cover the cost of public safety much less anything else. So, >> well, I I knew I I understand that. >> I would like to see how that hundred million or even 50 million how that might affect the the monies that we're going to get without uh reducing any services. >> Mary, that's I don't mean to interrupt, but that's a projection. It's nothing. We we legally are bound by a a balanced budget of things that we know are revenues. We're going to get that 100 million from the chamber. It's it's a

[2:14:01] projection. They don't know what. It could be zero. It could be 100. We can't move forward not knowing exactly what we have from that. >> Well, I think I'd like to give Steve the chance to provide that info. I'm just asking for seven days or even less, but by September 9th is doable. >> Are you done? >> Well, uh, >> we have a motion on the floor. >> Well, okay. I I those are the questions that I >> I'll say that even if they did bring in a hund00 million in capital um economic development whatever you know investment into our economy what that would do is right now we're at a three and a half% cap. We may be at a 2 and 12% cap next year which would further limit our ability to provide services. If that 100 million came in, all it would do is create higher valuations which would push down our tax rate. We would still be capped at the two and a half or three and a half% regardless, >> right? But that burden of taxation would be >> it would push down our tax rate. >> It would >> which is a good thing. >> Yes. It' push down the tax rate. >> But we won't know that like Tom said until next year. >> It would also take some of the burden off the citiz the the homeowners. Absolutely. and shift that to the commercial uh those commercial properties. So, I don't think it's a I don't think it's a a huge ask to at least have the not that knowledge from Steve and his team to see what that might affect. It may not do anything, but I I would >> I feel I owe it to the citizens and so do so does everyone else to take in every fact that we learn and do the best job that we that we can for them. And again, it may not do anything, but it's worth looking to see if it does. >> So, I'm I'm that's all I have to say.

[2:16:05] >> I have a first from Tommy Heert. I need a second. >> Second. >> A second from Harry Thomas. >> Any public comment on item G? Heather. >> With that, we'll take a vote individually. Correct. So, we'll start with Tommy. >> I no. >> Thank you. So, with that item passes 61 for item G. >> Thank you, Tina. You bet. >> I'm not trying to put you on or anybody else on the spot. You're doing what you need to do. That's not a problem. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> We'll move into item H, second reading and public hearing of an ordinance fixing and levying adalorum taxes for the current tax year for use in support of the municipal government of the city of St. Angelo, Texas for the 202526 budget year providing for the assessment and collection thereof. Providing when all tax shall become due, providing when tax shall become delinquent, providing for the exemptions, providing for severability, providing for the publication on the city operated website, and providing for an effective date presentation made by Tina Derski. >> Thank you, Mayor. Tina Deerski, director of finance. Um, as you stated, this is the sec second reading of the property tax rate. Um, here's a breakdown of what that looks like. The total increase is 0.0403 cents. Um almost entirely all of that is due to the coliseum bond referendum as we already discussed. Um and with this one I do have some specific caption language or a motion language that I will need you to read. Um and I this one doesn't record require the record vote just the specific language. >> Can you go back one slide? >> Yes sir. >> And I'm going to go I'll need some people some history here. How long have we been at the 7544 >> that was >> or below? >> Just this one year. >> Right. But we had that for several years before. We were down. >> Correct. >> Yes, we were down. >> But we've been at 7554 or under for what? 12 13 years.

[2:18:08] >> Uh under. Yes. Yes. The highest we've been in that time period was 776. >> Right. Gotcha. All right. I just need to and Mary has really good questions and and I I will say we all get those phone calls from people on this and and we move forward and I appreciate everybody's passion and concern about answering your constituents calls. That's very important. But with that, we add the bond of 0.0403 to it. Um, which was below what we thought it was going to be. So, I think voters should be happy with that. Move on to your next slide, Dana. >> Okay. >> You ready for somebody to read this? >> Absolutely. >> I move the property tax rate be increased >> by the adoption of the tax rate of 0.7947 per $100 evaluation, which is effectively a 9.67% 67% increase in the tax rate. >> So, I've got a first >> second >> and a second >> by Tommy Heert. >> And you don't need an individual. This was just a So, I've got a first and a second. Any public comment? >> No. >> With no public comment, we'll go for a vote. All those in favor say I. >> I. I. >> Any of those opposed? Item passes 61. >> Thank you, mayor. >> You bet. With that, we'll move in the close session executive session under the provision of government code title five, open government ethics, subtitle A, open government, chapter 551, open meetings, subchapter D, exceptions to requirement that meetings be open under the following sections. Discussion point item A, section 551.072, deliberations about real property regarding approximately 10.08 08 acres out of the abstract 011 survey 0320 FE Kramer and 0.989 acres out of the ES Kurvy subdivision block one. We'll move into executive session and we should be back in about 30 minutes. We will end close session and come back

[2:20:19] in and we will um do followup. Item eight, follow-up and administrative issues. Item A, consider items discussed in executive session if needed. It is not. We'll move on to item B. Consider approving various board nominations. Civic Events Advisory Board Andy Marquee SMD6 to an unexpired term ending December 2025. >> Well, that's pretty close ending date, isn't it? >> Yes. That's because it's an unexpired term. Then she will be appointed to her first full term almost, you know, in December and then she'll start her three full terms. >> All right. Do we go ahead and vote on that item? Anybody or everybody in favor say I. >> Any opposed to Andy Marquee? With no nays. B passes 70. We'll move to item C. Announcements and considerations of future agenda items. Um consider scheduling one meeting in December and consider one scheduling one meeting in January on Tuesday. Heather, this is some topics you have. Yes, council requested this at the last um meeting. I think due to scheduling um issues, the look like the best date for December to have one meeting would be that first Tuesday, December 2nd. Um so that's up for y'all to confirm or suggest a different date. >> Right. And then the January >> and then January one meeting meeting um in between what we would normally do the first and third and just meet that second Tuesday being January 13th. Um that would put about a six week gap there in between those two meetings for um the holidays, vacations, things like that. >> Awesome. >> Let's do it. >> All right. Uh future agenda items. >> Yes, >> Mr. Heert. >> Y'all stay with me. Um, everybody's fully aware what the state has done to us with three and a half% revenue cap. Well, as I understand it in communicating with Representative Darby,

[2:22:23] that's now going to be 2 and a.5%. Uh, the Senate apparently approved that out of the conference committee and it's now going to the House at noon today. Uh, Drew told me this morning. So he I won't speculate. Um but 2 and a half% is going to the House. That likely will pass. So here's here's my agenda item, folks. This is going to this is going to require us as council members to do something we have never done ever, and that is talk about what services we must eliminate. So Daniel, what I would like to ask for is workshops, work sessions much like we did in June, but not waiting six months, not waiting three months, but we start in October with at least one work session per month. It's not going to be we're not going to be voting on anything. I've got a list of things. I'm willing to read through them now or willing just to visit with you after the meeting if that's more appropriate. Um, but we need to start doing that and see what services what services we offer. Now, um, again, I'll I'll work through this with you if you want to, but um, that's something we've got to do. But folks, this is another topic that we don't want to discuss. And I think sometimes telling the truth is better than hiding behind the truth. Folks, we're going to have to look at a tax increase next year if we're going to cover our budget. If we're going to pay for police and fire, if we're going to do the things that we want, we're going to have to cut things and we're also going to have to look at more revenue. So, I think we need to put that on the table and put it before the citizens and start discussing that now and not run around with their hair on fire starting next year sometime. >> Tommy, the Yeah. And the citizens will have to vote for that. So, again, at 2

[2:24:25] and a half%, we'll definitely max max out on that and anything above that will go to the citizens anyway. So yeah, that's a good topic to start discussing. So >> So I'll give you what what I'm what my thoughts are and then you all can work through what we what we start talking about in those work sessions. But let's let's don't >> let's don't delay this. Let's get started and and start moving through the process. >> We'll do >> and we'll also I guess if that goes through of what today it'll fall in that parameter, but that changes so much to how we move forward. >> It does. We'll we'll know sometime today. Um I think uh but it it's likely going to be capped at 2 and a half. And with all that um happy talk, mayor, I'd move we adjourn. >> Second. I >> have a first and a second for adjournment. All those in favor say I. >> Any opposed? Motion passes 70.

Captured 2026-07-26 · source: youtube.com/watch?v=YgVCqA633zI