Shawn Fort

The meeting included an executive session to consult with the attorney and deliberate regarding economic development projects (Thermo 4,5,6,7 and 8 and Project Maverick). Key discussion points involved a comprehensive Manager's Report detailing September activities, including a workers' compensation claim, progress on the Thermo Water Line installation, completion of the 2025 Street Improvement Program, ongoing City Hall construction, and advancement of development projects like Stonewood Subdivision Phase I. Departmental operational summaries covered pothole repairs, water and sewer maintenance (including 23 water main ruptures and sewer main cleaning), building inspections, police activity, Animal Control statistics, Fire Department call volumes, library usage, parks maintenance, Senior Center events, and airport fuel sales/operations. The Council unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included several previous meeting minutes. An ordinance was passed prohibiting the sale, use, possession, and distribution of 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) and 7-OH-containing products within the city, citing FDA and state classification of synthetic 7-OH as a controlled substance posing public health risks. A rezone request for a Plan Unit Development by TLSS Holdings LLC for multiple parcels was approved on first reading. The Council also adopted a resolution to deny Oncor Electric Delivery Company LLC's application to change rates, as the proposed increases were deemed unreasonable. Final plat approval was granted for the Stonewood Phase 1 subdivision. Bids were awarded for Thermo Sewer Line Phase 1 materials to Ferguson Waterworks and for manholes to Armorock. The purchase of a new Vac-Tron Hydro-Excavator Trailer using a cooperative contract was approved. Finally, bids for chemicals (Alum) for the Water and Wastewater Treatment Plants were approved, designating low and alternate suppliers. Public forum included varied opinions regarding a proposed data center project.

The council addressed a rezone request for a Planned Unit Development. They reviewed the investment policy and discussed an economic development program and agreement with Blackard Companies, LLC, focusing on the BrightStar property development. The council also discussed street maintenance fees and a final plat case for commercial lots. Purchases were approved for a compact telehandler, electronic control weapons, an excavator, a bull dozer, and a forestry skid steer. Additionally, the council authorized staff to enter into settlement discussions. The meeting included a public forum where visitors expressed opinions on the Data Center Project.

The City Council of Sulphur Springs, Texas, passed an ordinance amending the Master Fee Schedule for permitting, utility services, and other services provided by the city. The amendment aims to update fees to reflect increased costs and ensure the city's fiscal sustainability. The ordinance lists the fees and charges to be collected and states that in case of conflict with other ordinances, the Master Fee Schedule prevails. It repeals conflicting provisions and is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

The special session of the City Council was called to order. The council led the pledge of allegiance to the United States Flag and Texas Flag, followed by an invocation. The council moved into an Executive Session in accordance with Texas Government Code to consult with an attorney and to discuss deliberations regarding economic development, specifically Thermo 4,5,6,7 and 8 and Project Maverick. Following the Executive Session, the council reconvened into an open session, where no action was taken on the executive session items. The meeting was then adjourned.

The Sulphur Springs City Council held a regular meeting where they discussed and acted upon several key issues. These included presentations and proclamations such as the Constitution Week Proclamation, and updates from the City Manager on capital improvements, municipal operations, and accident claims. The council also addressed financial matters, such as approving the FY 2026 budget, setting the 2025 tax year property tax rate, and amending water and sewer rate ordinances. Additionally, they discussed economic development, including the approval of the EDC budget and plan of work, and the creation of reinvestment zones. Other topics included regulating video gaming businesses, addressing the sale of 7-hydroxymitragynine, and approving a settlement with Atmos Energy Corp.