Ronald B. Collins

The board conducted a public hearing regarding a variance application for reduced setbacks at 711 W 1st Street, specifically concerning the construction of porches for a manufactured home. The board also held an annual orientation on the roles and responsibilities of the commission, and addressed the annual appointment of a Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson.

The City Council meeting addressed various municipal and administrative matters. Key agenda items included the approval of drainage easements for the Tres Palacios Creek Expansion Project, approval of an amendment to the professional services agreement with Strand Associates, Inc. for the HMGP Water Plant Generator Project, and discussions regarding proposed paper billing fees for utility customers. Additionally, the council deliberated on awarding a 5-year solid waste contract, although no decision was reached. Extensive board and commission appointments were finalized, including positions for the Board of Adjustment, Planning & Zoning Commission, Keep El Campo Beautiful Board, Northside Board, City Development Corporation Board, Building Standards Commission, Grievance Board, Housing Authority Board, and Museum Board. The meeting concluded with a closed executive session regarding real property, with no subsequent action taken.

The City Council met to discuss the selection of a solid waste service provider for the upcoming five-year contract period. Public comments included suggestions to expand collection station hours, improve digital location data for the facility, and requests for the establishment of a recycling program. Representatives from competing waste management firms presented on their operational capacities, service standards, and community partnerships. Following deliberation, the Council voted to approve the selection of Texas Disposal Systems as the solid waste service provider and authorized contract negotiations.

The Commission addressed several administrative and regulatory matters, including an annual orientation on roles and responsibilities and the appointment of a Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson. Additionally, the agenda featured reviews of revisions to the Unified Development Code regarding development standards and supplemental regulations.

The City Council held a workshop to review the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 Budget. The discussion covered sales tax trends, employee pay and personnel changes including a cost of living increase, proposed rate increases for water, sewer, and transportation user fees, and various capital requests such as equipment, infrastructure repairs, and IT upgrades. The City Manager also indicated that a tax rate increase is being proposed to support the budget.