Damaris Garcia

The Board of Commissioners discussed various administrative and infrastructure projects. Key items included approval of change orders and engineering service agreements for water and roadway projects, resolutions opposing state legislation, and cybersecurity service contracts. The board selected an architect for the new Public Safety Building and reappointed members to the Zoning Board of Adjustments. Additionally, reports were presented on the 2025 legislative session priorities, grant opportunities for community infrastructure improvements, ongoing capital projects such as water plant renovations and fire station upgrades, and updates on project management for the fiscal year.

The meeting included public comments regarding drainage improvements and a proposal for a new soccer league. The Board recognized 10 years of service for a local business and reviewed several community events, including the Watermelon Festival and Freedom Bash, as well as an upcoming National Night Out event. The communications team was honored for receiving a national digital equity award for a public Wi-Fi project. The Board also approved a delinquent fines collection report and tabled an appointment for the Parks and Recreation Board. A public hearing was held regarding the proposed rezoning of land from single-dwelling residential to commercial, which included a petition in support of a self-storage facility development.

The Board of Commissioners meeting included several presentations, including announcements for upcoming community events and the recognition of the Communications Department for receiving four state awards. The commission discussed recent drainage project successes that mitigated flooding. Key actions included the approval of participation in the Urban County community development block grant program, the awarding of a bid for underground utility construction services, the rezoning of 7.649 acres from R2 to R1, and the acceptance of a grant for the Operation Stone Garden program.

The board discussed several items, including the purchase of new metal shelving for the library using grant funds, an update on the FM97 drainage project, and a successful insurance claim for the Watermelon Festival. Progress reports were provided for the Laguna Park project, the fire station remodeling, and fire engine delivery. The board approved an ordinance to establish a fee for the collection of municipal liens and entered into a contingency fee contract with Purdue Brandon Fielder Collins and M LLP for collection services. Additionally, they addressed grant funding for the new public safety building and authorized signatories for the CDBG-DR program. The meeting concluded with departmental reports and a citizen's public comment regarding tax rates.

The commission meeting included updates on local events, such as the upcoming Watermelon Festival and stroke awareness initiatives, with a proclamation issued declaring May as Stroke Awareness Month. Discussions were held regarding delays in the Alamo Road drainage project due to utility conflicts. Additionally, the commission reviewed pending issues at the wastewater treatment plant, authorized the acting city manager to sign financial instruments, and approved an interlocal agreement with Hidalgo County Precinct 1 for road improvement projects.