Desiree Canchola

The regular city council meeting commenced after an invocation and pledge of allegiance. Key discussions included the approval of the consent agenda, which involved the approval of the October 14th, 2025 city council minutes. Under individual consideration, the council adopted an ordinance canvassing the returns and declaring the results of a bond election. They also approved the 2026 holiday calendar for the city of Alice and the 2026 city council meeting calendar, noting that most meetings are scheduled for the third Tuesday, adjusted for November and December. Furthermore, the council approved a tax refund application for disabled veterans property located at 1328 Lincoln Street. The council authorized the purchase of three additional Ford Maverick units for the Alice Police Department utilizing Loan Star Grant funds, noting the fuel economy benefits and reallocation of older patrol vehicles. Finally, the council adopted a resolution ratifying the city manager's actions related to submitting the Operation Lonestar Fiscal Year 2026 grant application for overtime costs and equipment.

The council meeting commenced with an invocation and pledge of allegiance. Key agenda items included a public hearing and subsequent approval to rezone a vacant lot located at the corner of Cecilia and South Reynolds from B1 to R1 for single-family residential use, following a positive recommendation from planning and zoning. The council also discussed and approved entering into an interlocal agreement (memorandum of understanding) with the Texas Department of Public Safety to formalize resource sharing and coordinated action. Furthermore, the council ratified a contract with the Alice Police Officers Association for the fiscal years 2026 to 2028, which included pay increases, stricter testing requirements, and a provision allowing former employees in good standing to return with their prior years of service intact. Finally, an interlocal agreement was approved among the cities of Alice, Corpus Christi, Beville, and Matthysse to develop processes for sharing resources, particularly concerning water and wastewater services improvement projects.

The meeting discussed approving the mail out of a flyer explaining where property tax payments go with utility billing notices. Multi-use operations were tabled until a response from the school district. The council also considered approving a performance services energy services program, which included infrastructure upgrades, LED lighting, HVAC systems, power correction, and water meters.

The meeting involved discussions and negotiations regarding various articles of the collective bargaining agreement, including wages, economic relief, longevity pay, supplemental pays, and holidays. Key points included the rejection of a 2% wage increase, potential counters on longevity pay and supplemental pays, and concerns about the banking of holiday hours. The parties also discussed bereavement leave, vacation time, staffing, callback policy, and grievance procedures. The city expressed a desire to stop the banking of holiday hours and freeze rates, while also asserting management rights over scheduling.

The meeting included public announcements and a presentation of the Municipal Court Week Proclamation. The Alice Jim Wells County Economic Development Corporation provided a presentation, discussing their efforts to reorganize the EDC, attract businesses, and develop an incentive program. The council also considered nominating individuals to be placed on the Jim Wells County appraisal district board of directors.