Ursula Paddie

This document, the 2026 State of the City address, details the strategic direction and accomplishments for the City of Harker Heights. It focuses on positioning the city for long-term stability, growth, and opportunity through three core strategic priorities: infrastructure investment, economic development, and operational excellence. Key initiatives include enhancing transportation, utilities, drainage, and parks; strengthening the local economy and tax base through business attraction and development; and maintaining public safety and fiscal responsibility.

The council meeting included canvassing election returns, installing new officers, and appointing a Mayor Pro-Tem. Proclamations were presented for Emergency Medical Services Week, National Police Week, National Public Works Week, and Asian and Pacific Islander American Heritage Month. The council also discussed updating authorized signers for financial transactions. Public hearings were conducted to discuss changes in land use and zoning designations, including approvals for a change from Low Density Residential to Regional Center, a change from One-Family Dwelling District to General Business District with a Conditional Use Permit for animal boarding, and a change from One-Family Dwelling District to Rural One-Family Dwelling District with a Conditional Use Permit for an Accessory Dwelling Unit. Additionally, the council considered a Preliminary Plat for Ranger Top Addition and approved a Development Agreement for roadway improvements to Pima Trail.

The agenda includes mayoral proclamations, presentations, and consent items such as approving the minutes from a previous meeting. Public hearings are scheduled to discuss and consider ordinances related to impact fees and the city budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Regular business involves ratifying a property tax increase, addressing an appeal of a false robbery alarm service charge, awarding contracts for pedestrian and street improvement projects, and receiving the City Manager's report. The council will also convene into an executive session to discuss the reappointment of the Alternate Municipal Judge.

The council discussed breeding license requirements and restrictions, and later convened into an executive session to consult with the City Attorney and discuss the City Manager's employment, evaluation, and duties. Upon reconvening, the council approved the extension of the City Manager's contract with a salary raise, increased deferred compensation, and a retention incentive. A public hearing was conducted to consider approving an amendment to the Harker Heights Code of Ordinances to add a definition and exemption for "Wall Art". The council also approved a resolution adopting the Investment Policy of the City of Harker Heights and authorized the City's Investment Broker/Dealer List, and approved a list of investment training sponsors. The council received updates from the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board and Tree Advisory Board, as well as the Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Third Quarter Investment Report and Unaudited Financial Statement Report. The City Manager's Report was also presented.

The council conducted public hearings and discussed approving the budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2021, and ending September 30, 2022. They also discussed and approved an ordinance prescribing and setting the fiscal year 2021-2022 rates and charges, including penalties for non-payment. Additionally, the council discussed and ratified the property tax increase reflected in the fiscal year 2021-2022 budget.