Anita Gallardo

The council received departmental reports from the library, public works, and parks and recreation, including updates on proactive flood prevention and summer program preparations. The Economic Alliance presented its annual report, detailing regional port and manufacturing contributions, infrastructure projects, and workforce development initiatives. The council approved the submission of a grant application for the police department, authorized amendments to the capital outlay budget for an emergency AC unit replacement at City Hall and a new copier for the public works department, and adopted a new Code of Ethics.

The council received departmental reports from the Police, Public Works, Fire, and Parks & Recreation departments, including updates on ongoing projects, staff training, and recruitment initiatives. A new partnership with Harris County Public Health was established, focusing on vector control and collaborative training. The city's audit for the 2024-2025 fiscal year was presented, resulting in an unmodified opinion on the city's financial statements and compliance with federal grant programs, noting a positive net position and a healthy general fund balance.

The council received department reports regarding police activities, public works maintenance and projects, and personnel updates. Key business included administering oaths of office to elected candidates, appointing a Mayor Pro Tem, and holding the first reading of an ordinance regarding council salaries. The council adopted the Harris County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan and approved updates to the city's Purchasing/Procurement Policy to align with federal grant requirements. Furthermore, the council authorized the solicitation of Requests for Proposals for three major grant-funded projects, including a wastewater treatment plant project, a sewer line replacement, and a communications equipment upgrade.

The council meeting addressed several operational and regulatory matters, including infrastructure projects like water and sewer maintenance and solar light installations at parks. A status update was provided regarding the upcoming final audit for FY 2024-2025. The council approved two variance requests and adopted Resolution 2026-6R, which revises the city's retiree health insurance policy to ensure financial sustainability regarding healthcare expenditures for retirees.

The council discussed ongoing infrastructure projects, specifically noting water service disruptions caused by construction. The second and final reading of Ordinance 2026-1 was approved to declare unopposed candidates elected and cancel the upcoming general election. Additionally, the council reviewed the city's approach to the GRIP filing notice from CenterPoint. A budget amendment for the purchase of a new copier for the Police Department was approved, with a shift from leasing to purchasing to simplify accounting and reduce costs. Finally, the council confirmed the appointment of a new full-time police officer.