Leslie Black

The City of Whitehouse Management Plan outlines a strategic roadmap developed during a workshop in May 2018, designed to guide the city's progress over the next 10 years. The plan focuses on providing amenities and infrastructure for a safe and engaged community. It includes six 'big bold steps' and detailed action plans aimed at strengthening city management, governance, land acquisition, funding, community amenities, and the city's brand. The plan emphasizes integrity, transparency, commitment, engagement, and boldness as core values, with a commitment to addressing community aspirations in a clear, feasible, and sustainable manner.

The strategic plan outlines six bold steps to enhance city management, governance, land acquisition, funding, amenities, and city identity. Key initiatives include developing a performance management plan, improving internal and external communications, establishing a proactive messaging program, securing necessary land for future development, obtaining adequate funding through various sources, and creating amenities to enhance the quality of life. The plan also focuses on updating branding elements and promoting the city's vision through targeted marketing and hospitality training.

The council meeting included discussions on quotes for insulating water well sites to prevent freezing, updates on facility projects, a broadband request for information, street lighting conditions, and future agenda items. The meeting also covered approval of the minutes from the December 13, 2022 meeting.

The council meeting involved a discussion of the FY 2023-2024 budget and tax rate, including consideration of redundant fiber costs. The meeting also included setting a proposed tax rate and public hearing date, and discussion of community interest items such as road construction and election filings. A key discussion point was the proposed de minimis tax rate, which would lower the tax rate by 5.5 cents. Other topics included updates on the community center construction, parks plan implementation, and the Economic Development Corporation's strategic plan. The council also discussed infrastructure vitality, including water and wastewater rates and a 10-year capital and equipment needs assessment. Finally, the council considered budget adjustments, including reducing payments in lieu of taxes and increasing funding for youth community council initiatives.

The council meeting included prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance. A community interest segment discussed the Christmas event, highlighting its success and community engagement. The public forum addressed a request for a fenced dog park area. The consent agenda included approval of the minutes from the November 14, 2022 meeting. Other action items included the election of the Mayor Pro Tem, a public hearing on a rezoning request for a 5.25-acre tract of land on Willingham Rd., discussion of the Rose Meadows subdivision, a Corey Drive traffic data presentation, a railroad avenue well site update, a broadband RFI update, and consideration of future agenda items. Administrative reports and an executive session to discuss personnel matters regarding the City Manager's quarterly review were also held. Finally, action was taken on personnel matters and the meeting adjourned.