Deborah Balli

The meeting addressed water main issues and announced a Downtown Vision Meeting. Discussions included the scheduling of budget workshops and a request to move them earlier. The commission considered an ordinance for Tax Increment Financing Reinvestment Zone Number Two and another amending the budget for the Escondido Rail Crossing Project. Other items included revising the speed limit on General Cavazos Boulevard, a resolution supporting a grant submission for resilience in the Baffin Bay Watershed, and budget amendments for Parks vehicle maintenance and adjustments based on audited fund balances. The commission also discussed funding for the HRSA Cares Provider Relief Fund payback, a resolution for a Resilient Communities Program grant application, and revisions to sidewalk regulations. An executive session was held regarding real property, followed by a resolution to sell city land. A workshop covered the proposed FY24-25 Employee Compensation Plan.

The City Commission conducted public hearings regarding improvements financed by the Somerset at Kingsville Public Improvement District No. 1, and the final plats for Somerset at Kingsville Units 2B, 3, and 4. The commission discussed reports from various committees and staff, including updates on city streets. Public comments addressed animal control issues and upcoming events. The commission considered and approved the final plats for Somerset at Kingsville Units 2B, 3, and 4, accepted additional donations for Parks Department Healthy Family Events, and discussed resolutions regarding ASPCA grants, mental health leave, and flex leave policies. An executive session was held for economic development negotiations and evaluation duties of the City Manager. A resolution to authorize the Mayor to execute an Employment Agreement for the City Manager position was not approved.

The City Commission held a public hearing for a Special Use Permit for the Kingsville Community Federal Credit Union. They also discussed and considered an application by Integrity Developers Group, Inc. for residential development infrastructure assistance for Paulson Falls Phase II. Additionally, they considered revisions to the definitions of vicious animals and the authority of animal control, as well as the formation and size of a Charter Review Committee. The commission also discussed human resource initiatives for general compensation policies and overtime pay, and a policy for Commission approval of reprogramming Certificate of Obligation monies. They entered an executive session to deliberate the deployment of security personnel or devices, seek legal advice regarding potential litigation related to the South Texas Water Authority Supply Contract, and pending litigation concerning Roberto Alvarez vs. City of Kingsville. Finally, they considered proposed contracts with the South Texas Water Authority and authorized the City Manager to enter into a confidential settlement agreement for the resolution of matters in dispute regarding the Roberto Alvarez case.

The City Commission meeting included reports from the City Manager and City Attorney, as well as discussions on the upcoming budget and policy changes regarding weather emergencies. Public comments addressed concerns about the Flato School property deed restrictions and sidewalk regulations. The commission also considered resolutions and ordinances related to traffic schedules, budget amendments for parks and HRSA payback, police department equipment, and a memorandum of understanding with the Regional Organized Crime Information Center (ROCIC). Additionally, they discussed revisions to sidewalk regulations, investment policies, water meter projects, and administrative policies related to substance abuse and breastfeeding support. A workshop was held to discuss potential fee changes for city services, covering areas such as water and sewer rates, landfill fees, park rentals, golf course fees, planning department fees, police department fees, stormwater drainage fees, and utility billing fees. An executive session was convened to deliberate the evaluation duties of the City Manager.

The commission held a public hearing regarding a special use permit request for a package liquor store. Reports were given by the City Manager and City Attorney, including updates on street projects and the upcoming election filing period. A citizen commented on highway safety and speed limits. The commission approved the consent agenda, which included motions related to budget amendments for fire fighter radios and replacement trees in Chamberlain Park. They also considered an Economic Development Grant for One World Children's Rehab, LLC, and discussed funding for surveying services. A resolution was approved to authorize the City Manager to execute a construction contract for a manhole rehabilitation project. Additionally, resolutions were passed to support badge retirement for fallen officers and to confirm the selection of John Blair as the new police chief. The commission discussed potential reductions in the number of positions on the Board of Adjustments, Planning & Zoning board, and Historical Districts and Landmarks board. Finally, there was a discussion regarding the installation of an electrical plug for the Veterans Administration Medical Mobile Unit.