City Council - Regular Meeting

No, sir.

All right. Next item are city highlights. We have a list of events. So for anybody that is watching or following along, if you've got a copy of the agenda, the events are listed here in this portion. There's always something going on in the city of Edinburgh. There are two in particular that I would like to highlight. The first one is tomorrow morning at the Municipal Auditorium, which is this building right here across from our courtyard. we will have our Memorial Day Commemoration Ceremony. It starts, doors open at 9.30. The ceremony starts at 10 a.m. I invite all of the community to come out so that we can reflect on Memorial Day, on the sacrifices of those who have given the ultimate price for our freedoms that we enjoy here every single day. So if you can make it tomorrow morning at 10 a.m. here at the Edinburgh Municipal Auditorium, we would love to see you out there. The other event that I wanted to highlight today is next week, May 29th at 9 a.m. at the Regional One Service Education Center, the Chamber of Commerce is hosting the Edinburgh Mayor's Prayer Breakfast. Open to the public, available for anybody to come and celebrate the power of prayer. National Prayer Day was earlier this month, and this event will be marking that, celebrating that, and so I hope the public will come out. Again, anybody is welcome to make it to that event. Next item we have is mayor's report, but there's nothing in addition to what I've already talked about. Next item then are the proclamations of recognition. Item A, we will have the city secretary read the caption, and then the city secretary will read the proclamation. And while we're doing that, if I can ask city council to come forward for some photos. Please.

Yes, your mayor. Presentation of proclamation recognizing May 2026 as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and Awareness Month, as requested by Joe David Garza. ALS Awareness Month, May 2026. Whereas amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive fatal neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, resulting in loss of voluntary muscle control, paralysis, and death. And whereas it is estimated that every 90 minutes someone is diagnosed with ALS and someone passes away from ALS, And whereas ALS is often diagnosed between the ages of 40 and 70, but it can affect anyone regardless of race, ethic, or socioeconomic status. And whereas military veterans are approximately twice as likely to develop ALS as a general population. And whereas securing access to new therapies, durable medical equipment, and communication technologies is of vital importance to those living with ALS. And whereas clinical trials play a pivotal role in evaluating new treatments, enhancing quality of life, and fostering assistive technologies. And whereas the ALS Association provides vital care services, equipment, and advocacy across our state to make ALS livable and find a cure for everyone. And whereas Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Awareness Month provides an opportunity to honor the memory of those who have lost their lives to the disease, acknowledge the profound impact on their families, and recognize caregivers and health care providers. Now therefore, the Maine Council of the City of Edinburgh, Texas, by power vested and then by law, do hereby recognize May 2026 as ALS Awareness Month in the City of Edinburgh, and encourage everyone to support ALS research and stand in solidarity with those affected by this relentless disease.

Thank you, Mayor, and thank you members of the City Council for this incredible honor. I stand here today because I had lost my father in 2018 to ALS. Watching him battle this horrible disease was the hardest thing my family had ever gone through, but it showed us the vital importance of community, support, and hope. By dedicating the month of May to ALS awareness, our city is sending a powerful message to every family currently facing this fight. You're not alone, and you're not forgotten. ALS is a devastating diagnosis, but awareness is where cure begins. It drives funding, fuels research, and brings us closer to a world without the disease. I accept this proclamation in loving memory of my dad and on behalf of every warrior and caregiver in our community dealing with ALS. Thank you for giving us a voice and helping us bring ALS out of the shadows. Thank you.

Thank you all. Thank you all so much for bringing this to our attention. And I know you emailed me directly asking me, right, if the city would be willing to do this. And the city council was 100% on board with doing this. ALS is a terrible disease, you're right. But everybody needs to be aware of it. It affects more people than we give it credit for. And so I really appreciate you bringing this issue forward and allowing us this opportunity to bring recognition to this disease. Thank you so much for sharing your personal story. Thank you. Next item on the agenda is Proclamation B regarding Stroke Awareness Month. City Secretary, if you could read the captions. AND READ THE PROCLAMATION AND CITY COUNCIL WILL COME DOWN TO PRESENT THE PROCLAMATION AND TAKE SOME PICTURES.

YES, MAYOR. PRESENTATION OF PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING MAY 2026 AS STROKE AWARENESS MONTH AS REQUESTED BY SOUTH TEXAS HEALTH SYSTEM. STROKE AWARENESS MONTH MAY 2026. WHEREAS EVERY 40 SECONDS SOMEONE IN THE UNITED STATES EXPERIENCES A STROKE ACCORDING TO THE CDC AND MORE THAN 795,000 PEOPLE SUFFER A STROKE EACH YEAR. AND WHEREAS SOMEONE IN THE U.S. DIES FROM A STROKE EVERY 3 MINUTES AND 11 SECONDS MAKING STROKE THE FOURTH LEADING CAUSE OF DEATH NATIONWIDE with over 165,000 stroke-related deaths annually. And whereas time is brain, meaning swift response to stroke is crucial because every minute it goes untreated, the brain loses an estimated 1.9 million neurons, which can result in permanent damage, disability, or death. And whereas up to 80% of strokes are preventable through healthy lifestyle choices, effective management of underlying health conditions, and regular medical screenings. And whereas knowing the warning signs of stroke is essential to survive, and health experts recommend the BFAST acronym, balance, eyes, facial droop, arm weakness, speech difficulty, and time to call 911. And whereas the South Texas Health System Neurosciences and Stroke Institute offers a full spectrum of advanced nationally recognized neurological care through its comprehensive and primary stroke centers and its acute stroke-ready freestanding emergency departments. And whereas the Institute has played a vital role in raising awareness across the city of Edinburgh and the Rio Grande Valley through initiatives like the Let's Talk Your Health series and the Steps for Stroke 50,000 Step Challenge. Now, therefore, the Mayor and Council of the City of Edinburgh, taxed by power, rescinded by law, do hereby recognize May 2026 as Stroke Awareness Month in the City of Edinburgh and encourage all citizens to take proactive steps to prevent stroke and to join STHS's Steps for Strokes initiative to help confront this life-threatening medical emergency. Together, we can fight stroke and, most importantly, help change its future for our community.

On behalf of South Texas Health System, we'd like to thank the City of Edinburgh and the Edinburgh City Council for helping raise awareness for stroke in our community. As the statistics mention, every 40 seconds someone in the U.S. experiences a stroke. Every three and a half minutes someone dies of stroke. And while Stroke Awareness Month is coming to a close at the end of May, we should make prevention a year-round effort. And so there are some things that we can all do as a community, as individuals, to hopefully prevent strokes in our community. 80% of strokes are preventable, so please manage your chronic conditions, especially high blood pressure, which is the leading cause of stroke. Make healthy diet choices. Lead an active lifestyle. That means 150 minutes of moderate, intense aerobic exercise a week. Quit smoking, maintain a healthy weight, and limit your alcohol intake. Once again, thank you for helping raise awareness for stroke in our community. We appreciate you.

Excellent. And if I can just say thank you so much to South Texas Health System, Edinburgh. You all are always so engaged in the community. From 5K events to flag raises to bringing these events right to our awareness, it's really important. I agree. Diet choice is important. It's really hard in this region. We all know how good our food is. But keep up with that active lifestyle. It's something that a lot of us are big proponents of. So thank you again for bringing this to our attention. And so the next item on the agenda is item C, recognizing the Edinburgh Solid Rock Volleyball Team. Thank you all for being out here. So if we could have the city secretary read the caption, read the proclamation, we're gonna come down and get some pictures with you all, okay? Yes, your mayor.

Presentation of proclamation recognizing the Edinburgh Solid Rock Volleyball Team as the 2026 Lone Star Regional Championships Tournament Champions. Edinburgh Solid Rock Volleyball Team. Whereas the Solid Rock Volleyball Academy was established in 2019 with the mission to improve the level of volleyball competition in the Rio Grande Valley through the development of individual player and team skills, techniques, and game strategy, while emphasizing the value of teamwork, responsibility, and self-discipline. And whereas in May 2026, the Solid Rock Academy 12-year volleyball team competed as Edinburgh Solid Rock in the Lone Star Regional Tournament, a premier event drawing over 600 teams from across the region to compete at the highest level of non-bid youth volleyball. And whereas Edinburgh Solid Rock competed in the elite division, where through determination, unity, and excellence on the court, they went undefeated all the way and emerged at first place champions. And whereas this remarkable accomplishment reflects the commitment of the athletes, the guidance of their coaches, the support of their families, and the strength of the community that continues to invest in youth development, leadership, and sportsmanship. And whereas the Edinburgh Solid Rock volleyball team is made up of an outstanding group. Number six, Peyton Cavazos, right side hitter. Number three, Isa Esparza, libero. Number four, Rosalie Espinosa, defense specialist. Number one, Isabella Garcia, outside hitter. Number seven, Madison Garza, outside hitter. Number 47, Romina Guevara, setter hitter. Number 31, Renata Martinez, middle blocker. Number 12, Ari Salinas, middle blocker. And number 27, Neisa Trevino, setter hitter. The team is led by head coach Lisbeth Getter and assistant coaches Diego Arenas and Mayra Cavazos. And whereas the Edinburgh City Council proudly recognized THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE EDINBURG SOLID ROCK BOLLEYBALL TEAM, WHOSE DEDICATION, DISCIPLINE, AND TEAMWORK BRINGS HONOR TO THE COMMUNITY. NOW, THEREFORE, THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EDINBURG, TEXAS, BY THE POWER OF A SIGNIFICANT LAW, DO HEREBY RECOGNIZE THE EDINBURG SOLID ROCK BOLLEYBALL TEAM AND ENCOURAGE ALL RESIDENTS TO JOIN IN RECOGNIZING THE SUCCESS OF THESE STUDENTS AND COACHES.

ALL RIGHT. CONGRATULATIONS, GIRLS. WHO WOULD LIKE TO SAY SOMETHING? Please, please, coach.

It's a little bit long. I mean, not that long. Take your time.

You deserve this recognition, so please.

First of all, congratulations to the Edinburgh Solid Rock 12U team for winning the gold championship. I came to be a part of this amazing team along with my daughter, Payne, in January. No one really talks about what it takes to be in a traveling team. The dedication, the commitment, the work put into getting ready for all of these tournaments that we competed in is to be admired. Most of these girls have been together training for a couple of years. Three girls joined the team that had not played in travel. And I believe that made an impact in the team's success. You can see the talent this team possesses and the capacity to pay at a higher level. When we started this journey, we set an impossible goal to win the gold medal, but you didn't just want it. You work for it. You held each other accountable with things. When things got tough, you picked each other up when we were down. and you trusted the process even when it felt too difficult at times. Volleyball is a game of relentless energy and quick recovery. You promised to give it your all, and all was left on the court. Be proud of the history we made together. You didn't just play for a gold medal, you played for each other. And you played to represent the Edinburgh Solid Rock Volleyball team with pride. Thank you for an unforgettable season, and I'm so proud to be your coach. To the families who support us behind the scenes, this medal belongs to you just as much as it belongs to us. Our commitment to our girls is never ending. Thank you for the sacrifices made through this season. Thank you for being our number one fan and cheering for these young ladies at every game. Without these incredible parents, these girls would not be here today. Ladies, make sure you thank your parents for allowing and supporting you to play a sport that you truly love. To the city council. Thank you for recognizing Edinburgh Solid Rock 12-year volleyball team with this proclamation. This recognition means a lot to the Edinburgh Solid Rock family. It is an honor to be able to represent the city of Edinburgh and come back with a gold medal championship. We greatly appreciate this honor. Thank you.

Anybody else? Anybody else like to come and say something?

No?

All right. Well, here, stay standing because I do actually want to take the time to do that right now. If you could, turn around and please clap and say thank you to your parents for everything they did to get you here. And it's true, you wouldn't be here without them. But ultimately, your parents don't play the games for you. They might try, but they don't. You are the ones out there on the court. You're putting in the work. You are the ones bringing home the hardware. And I am very excited that you're not just Solid Rock, you are Edinburgh Solid Rock. So that, thank you. So that when you win that state title, everybody knows where you come from and who you represent. Thank you all so much for representing our community so well. Congratulations. All right. Now, next item agenda is the public comments. Madam Secretary, do we have any?

Yes, Mayor. Good evening, everyone. The Edinburgh City Council allows for a specific portion of the City Council meeting to be dedicated to public comments. Public comments are limited to three minutes. I'll be taking time. Please note the public comment period is not interactive. The Council may not respond to public comments. At this time, Mayor and Council, there are six public comments. The first public comment is Lazaro Ayala regarding national public works announcements.

Good evening, Mayor, Council. It is an honor to stand before you today as we recognize National Public Works Week 2026 and celebrate the hardworking men and women who help keep our city operating safely, efficiently every day. Public Works is the backbone of any community, from the streets we travel on to traffic signals, drainage systems, and public facilities, much of what residents rely on on the daily. is made possible through the dedication and commitment of Public Works employees. Many times the works performed by these departments happens behind the scenes and outside of normal business hours. Whether responding to storms, repairing infrastructure, maintaining roadways, or ensuring public safety, these employees are always ready to serve our community wherever they are needed. Today is an opportunity to recognize not only work that goes that gets it done, but also the people behind it. The crews, the technicians, operators, administrative staff, and supervisors who take pride in serving the citizens of our city each and every day. On behalf of our department, I would like to thank the mayor, city council, city leadership, and the public for your continued support of Public Works operations and infrastructure improvements throughout our community. We are proud to serve this city and will remain committed to helping build a safer, stronger, and better community for everyone. Thank you.

Now, if you all can hold on for a second. I know we didn't get this on in time for proclamation for the week, but could we come down and get a picture with you all and celebrate this, please?

We would love that. Thank you.

Thank you all so much.

Okay, next public comment.

The next public comment is Mr. McCarty regarding taxpayers' money.

Would you like a picture, Fern?

Well, why not? I'm going to come down. I'll hug you. I was going to say that would be a new one. Okay, but I'd take it. All right. I know that some may think conservatives sit around trying to find things to be against. See, I wasn't against the picture. That is not true. Things that are unbelievably just hit us in the face after every election. For example, the city pays about $9 million each year for bonds it has sold, and we are making these payments based on an income that does not increase every year. In fact, some years our income does not increase at all. There have been very few things that have been consistent throughout the years, but our position on taxes has remained the same. We do not want to pay more taxes because we live in one of the largest county in the state and one of the largest population of poor people. We cannot afford to pay more. We want to keep our homes and work on achieving the American dream. We do not want to live in multifamily housing. But every time we have an election, the flyers come out saying, we understand that taxes are high and we will address the issues. Our water rates will increase by 67% next year. $9 million in bonds have been sold because funds have been shifted to the golf courses. And now I understand that we have hired a golf director at a $100,000 salary. I'd like to know what he does. Gentlemen, poor people do not have the time or money to play golf. And I have not forgotten my favorite topic, our $6 million parking garage. Let's see how much this is actually going to cost us. Gentlemen, I know the Council has discussed a $275 million bond issue. We have been complaining about our annual payment of $9 million for an outstanding bond. The annual payment for a $275 million bond would be $10.7 million for 360 years. The total payment would be $3,860,973,792.73. Do you think this is going to make us happy? And I'd also like to ask everyone to please pray for our country, pray for Israel, and pray for peace for the people that are in Israel and the people that are in Iran and the people especially in the United States. This is a time that we need to stand together and not, like I always say, these people have a right to stand and speak as I am tonight. And I'm also going to take my three minutes for the agenda items. So I'm waiting. Do I keep going?

Sure, please go ahead.

All right. Tonight I have three, 11A, 12A, and 12B. 11A, I just want you to explain, because I got a call and I said, I have no idea. You're... Look, considering rejecting the lease of the Edinburgh property, this is the drag strip out north 281. As to why you're rejecting it, is there a problem or what was going on? And the second one is 12A. This is about the designation of a culture art district from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley campus to Veterans Boulevard and execute an application. They just wanted to know what this is. And what is the benefit for the people here in Edinburgh? And the third thing is 12 B. Uh, this is talking about the city manager to submit a grant application to the U S department of transportation, uh, for the fiscal year of 2026 safe streets and roads for all grants. And I said, I would ask, and hopefully you will get the department heads to answer these questions. And I do thank you.

The next public comment is Roberto Cuellar regarding item 9B. Oh, 9A.

Honorable Mayor, Councilman, Roberto Cuellar. My comments tonight, it's on the 9A item, and I'm pretty sure you're aware of it. This is rezoning, and that's rezoned-2025-0027A. THIS HAS BEEN GOING ON SINCE IT GOT SUBMITTED BACK IN AUGUST, SEPTEMBER OF LAST YEAR. IT HAS BEEN CANCELLED THREE TIMES ALREADY. THREE BY THE OWNER AND THEN TWO BY THE CITY COUNCIL FOR OBVIOUS REASON WE DON'T KNOW OF. IT JUST GOT POSTPONED. AND THIS IS I'VE ASKED BEFORE AND MY QUESTION TO THIS WOULD BE HOW MANY TIMES CAN THE OWNER WITHDRAW and put it back in, withdraw, put it back in. The last one he withdrew was in April the 12th, 30 minutes before the meeting started. So we get everybody all worked up, get them up here. They leave work early to come and testify, and then nothing happens. I mean, how many times can this legally be done? I've tried to find an answer. Went through the zoning department. They're not sure. they can do it forever. I went through city manager, the assistant city manager, and just this past week, I went with the city manager's office. I couldn't find the city attorney. He was busy, whatever. So my main question is, how many times can they withdraw the request and then put it back in? I think this is a charade now. They're playing games. see if they wear us down. But the neighborhood and the members of the West Palm Drive Street will not be worn down. We will be here every time this comes up. And hopefully tonight we can resolve this issue, one way or the other. Okay, thank you.

THE NEXT PUBLIC COMMENT IS RAY CHAVEZ REGARDING ITEM 11A.

GOOD EVENING, MR. MAYOR, COUNCIL MEMBERS. MY NAME IS RAY CHAVEZ WITH VETTENBERG MOTOR SPORTS PARK AND THIS IS MY BUSINESS PARTNER ALBERT RODRIGUEZ AND THIS IS

Racing Representative, Mr. Paul Ibram.

For nearly 50 years, Edinburgh has maintained the tradition of providing a safe legal place for racing. Throughout that time, the city and its track operators have shared the same goal, keeping street racing off public roads while creating a positive space for the community. Ten years ago, EMP was entrusted with continuing that legacy. Since then, we have invested heavily into the facility, including a new track timing system, LED lighting, specialized equipment, and most recently resurfacing the main track surface at a cost of over a quarter million dollars. All aimed at improving safety for racers and professional racing teams that visit our facility. We made those investments despite operating under a year to year lease because we believe in being responsible stewards of this facility and continuing the partnership that benefits the community. Beyond racing, we also want to expand the positive impact of the racetrack We have already begun discussions with Judge-elect Catherine Garcia-Perez and District Attorney Terry Palacios about programs aimed at guiding street racers towards safer and more constructive opportunities at the racetrack. We understand the city wants greater value from this partnership. EMP currently operates about six days each month, and that weather can reduce that schedule even further. Unlike most traditional businesses, our attendance depends entirely on people choosing to spend their discretionary income at the racetrack. Rather than increasing fixed costs, we would welcome the opportunity to partner with the city on annual events to promote community engagement, public safety, and economic activity, while continuing our shared mission of keeping racing safe, legal, and off of public streets. These events would drive increased revenue directly into the airport fund. We're honored to continue this longstanding tradition and remain committed to working with the city towards a positive future. Thank you guys for our time.

Good afternoon. I hadn't signed up because I was driving in from Cuero. My name is Paul Abram, Edinburgh, Texas. I'm one of the racers that's been participating at the racetrack north of town for over 50 years when it was first operational in 1976. And I've been there through five, six different operators, Merle Shepherd, Tom Barron, Julio Cantu, Freddy Cruz, and now Albert and Ray. Having a racetrack is very important to any auto enthusiast as well as any sports enthusiast. And we would love to see the racetrack continue. We would like to see there be an ongoing effort and cooperation between the city and the race operators to continue to improve upon it and make it a safe and enjoyable place to go. Racing is a very intense...

Thank you, sir. Thank you. The next public comment is Ms. Diane Teeter regarding taxes.

Good evening, Diane Teeter. We all know the saying, between a rock and a hard place. That is exactly where the state of Texas has placed cities like Edinburgh. During this recent election cycle, Governor has continued promoting a long-term goal of phasing out property taxes, yet no detailed replacement revenue plan has been presented. Property taxes fund police, fire, EMS, drainage, streets, parks, and libraries. Eliminating them without a replacement would destabilize the essential services that keep the city functioning. At the same time, Texas law caps cities at 3.5% annual property tax revenue growth without voter approval, even though the cost of public safety, water treatment, and infrastructure rises way faster. That is effectively an unfunded mandate, and with sweeping preemption laws like HB 2027, also known as the Death Star, Austin has restricted local authority in broad areas. Meanwhile, we are living through severe drought conditions. The Rio Grande flows and reservoir levels have been declining, and the cost of treating water continues to rise. Edinburgh is doing what responsible cities must do, planning ahead. That includes a brackish groundwater desalination plant, major water system upgrades, and long-term investments to secure our supply. These projects are not optional. They are essential. And yes, water rates are increasing, but they are increasing because the alternative is unacceptable. Unreliable water, failing pipes, and a city unprepared for the climate realities of South Texas. You cannot have growth, safety, or economic stability without a dependable water system. Recently, I attended a community development block grant public hearing and was reminded how some of these investments become possible. Municipal grants teams play a vital role in securing discretionary state and federal infrastructure dollars, especially when local tax revenues are capped by state law. Grant's department often serve as the primary lifeline for funding major capital projects, such as upgrades to local aviation, water facilities, without placing the entire burden on local taxpayers. Edinburgh Grant's department is that lifeline. So while the state limits revenue, shifts responsibilities downward, and restricts local authority, Edinburgh is doing the hard, responsible work to protect essential services and secure our future. We are between a hard place and a rock. And thank you for all you do.

The last public comment is Gerardo Aleman.

Good afternoon. My name is Gerardo Aleman, my husband and I Somos los propietarios de la propiedad 513 West Palm Drive. Estamos aquí solicitando la resonificación de Auto Urban to Commercial Light. Solicito el cambio del uso de suelo a Commercial Light para establecer un negocio de aire acondicionado, el cual es un negocio de bajo impacto, no genera tráfico constante, no produce ruido excesivo y opera en horarios regulares. Esta resonificación ayudará al crecimiento land use by planning and zoning. La construcción estará ubicada de 800 a 1,000 pies de la parte de enfrente de la propiedad para minimizar su impacto en la zona. Actualmente, West Palm Drive es una calle de doble sentido. Está planificada a extenderse a 120 pies de ancho según Door Fair Plans. Les pido su apoyo para esta resolución. Gracias.

There are no further comments, Mayor.

All right. Since there are no further comments, we'll move on to Item 8A.

Presentation of Delinquent Tax and Municipal Court Collection Report for the period of October 1st, 2025 through March 31st, 2026.

Good afternoon, Mayor and Council. As the General Director of Finance, Today we have Ms. Kelly Salazar with the firm Lineberger Attorneys at Law to present their delinquent tax and municipal court report for the period of October 1st, 2025 through March 31st, 2026.

Good evening, Mayor, members of the council. Kelly Salazar here to present your semiannual report. And I'll lead with the collections are up. this semiannual report. We know the revenue is of critical importance to the city and all of its functions. Our delinquent tax collection program on behalf of the city of Edinburgh focuses on two basic premises. The first is to collect from the individual taxpayer first, and secondly, use the tool of litigation only as a final option to collect. During these past six months, we completed three demand mailings, mailing over 3,400 statements to delinquent taxpayers in Edinburgh. We made or received over 1,400 phone calls. We knocked on 120 doors. We find this to be the most compassionate and effective method of collections to have a one-on-one communication with an individual. 71 payment agreements, 167 payoff agreements, and we've instituted an effective text messaging campaign, and we've text messaged over 3,200 delinquent taxpayers within the city of Edinburgh. It's a more modern approach and a more easy approach to connect with especially younger delinquent taxpayers. Regarding litigation, we have filed 54 lawsuits, disposed of 55, and currently we have 230 cases pending representing the city of Edinburgh and accounting for over 885,000 delinquent base penalty and interest owed to the city. We regularly conduct tax sales and resells involving delinquent judgments with little to no effort to pay on behalf of the taxpayer. We placed five properties for sale this period. Five of those were sold. And I'd like to highlight that I can't remember the last time we've put up for sale and sold an occupied homestead property. Our emphasis is compassionate collections, having that one-on-one contact and doing our best to get folks into a payment agreement rather than resorting to a method such as that. And you'll see also that we collected over $2,400 in mowing lanes on behalf of the city of Edinburgh as well. Our collections, as I mentioned earlier, are up compared to last semiannual report, over $614,000 in base collected, over $39,000 also collected in base, which would have been refunded to taxpayers that filed a homestead agreement, I mean, filed a homestead exemption. and we're entitled to payment as per the appraisal district, and over $218,000 in penalty and interest, representing over $872,000 collected in the six-month period. We have also added for your information, have the slides been going through for you, or have you just been on the main page on your screen?

Oh, no, I've been following along on the packet.

Okay. Okay, well, let's continue then. We also represent the City of Edinburgh in the collection of its delinquent municipal fines and fees. Those are when folks get a ticket within the City of Edinburgh. We do our best to connect with them and get them to make a payment. Those accounts get referred to us by your municipal court when they're 60 days delinquent. And during this period, we have made or received 712 phone calls, mailed over 6,100 letters, and updated over 2,900 addresses for the City of Edinburgh. During the six months, we have collected over $97,000 in delinquent fines and fees. During the period of our representation, we've collected over $3.1 million for the City of Edinburgh, representing over a 57% resolution rate. That concludes my report for both delinquent tax and fees and fines. I'd be happy to answer any questions that you might have.

Anything? All right, thank you very much for your diligence and your compassion.

Thank you very much, Mayor. Have a good evening, Council.

Next item on the agenda is Public Hearings 9A.

Both Public Hearings consider the ordinance providing for the Comprehensive Plan Amendment from Outer Urban Uses to Industrial Uses and the reasonable request from Residential Suburban District to Industrial Light District, the west half of, as described, located at 513 West Palm Drive, as requested by Gerardo Aleman Treviño and Veronica Aleman.

This public hearing is now open. Anybody who wishes to speak for or against this item can approach the microphone. If you could just give us your name for the record, please. If you could give us your name for the record, please.

My name is Dr. Marcelino Cuellar, Reside 608 West Palm Drive, Edinburgh, and I'm here to protest the rezoning request issued by Mr. Aleman And the reason why is because it's in the middle of a family street. And I'm saying that he may claim that he's got good intentions, but again, as far as I know, I've seen that he already has some of those steel containers, which my understanding is it's against city code. He had three of them. He removed one on the... May the 8th, okay? And there's two of those containers still there. So my point is, he may start out with good intentions, but again, no one's gonna keep track of everything, and he eventually will mess up our community, which we're opposed to, okay? Again, this is a residential area, and I think it should stay as a residential area. He has other options, okay? The industrial park is very near there. and other places he can choose to have his business. But this is a residential area. Thank you. Thank you, sir.

Yeah, please come on up.

The gentleman a few minutes ago did ask how often can someone bring, keep bringing it up. We know there's usually a time period. So could you answer that for him and for the public?

Yeah, so in general, if a applicant requests to come off of the agenda or to not be considered, it's up to the city council at that point to either continue to take it up or to grant their request. I'm aware of only one request where this particular applicant has asked for that. But there is no legal text that says they only have so many times that they can come off and on. But as a practical matter, the city council wants to deal with these issues, right? So we, just like you, Don't want this to keep coming back on and off. If this were to happen multiple times, the city council would just take up the matter, even if the applicant was requesting otherwise.

Well, that's what we were wondering, because usually you have six months or a year on some things, and that's what I was wondering. Thank you.

Me again, on this matter. Yes, sir, please, go ahead. Roberto Cuellar. Thank you. 600 West Palm Drive. As my brother spoke, this is a residential area, and it's zoned that way. Yes, right to the west of that particular property is the city of Edinburgh Economic Development Zone. That's where the gene factory was, but that backs up to us. There's no traffic on there. If they want that, push it up to where there is the infrastructure for it. Right now there's no infrastructure there. We're taking a residential street and trying to make it into a commercial street when right just north of there you've got all the infrastructure. We don't even have sewage out there. We're still on sewage tanks. So where is he going to get his sewage done? I mean, the roads. The road is, in front of my house, in front of my driveway, is 17 feet wide. Okay? How is an 18-wheeler or any other commercial trucks going to make it through there? Okay? They can't. I have seen that an 18-wheeler, they brought in some bulldozers to clear up some land. He had to turn around at the new subdivision, which is now occupied yet and back up all the way down the street because there's no way to turn around. No way. That is not a commercial street. It's a residential street. Okay? And this is zone right now for residential and if we change it, it'll be spot. Just that one spot. Why? It doesn't make sense. There's no power there. There's no water. There's no, well, there's just a trickle of water. And no sewage. So, and, you know, changing this to commercial would change the character of our street. There's all resident, people bought there because it was a quiet residential street with no outlet. You could just go in and come out. There's no through traffic whatsoever. And it's just taking a page from your UDC, which is Unified Development Code, section 9403.B.4 requires city review bodies for zoning map amendments to assess whether the comprehensive plan calls for the zoning that is sought. Well, it doesn't. It's residential. Let's call for residential. So it's it's it's already and it's just going to change the character of the street. Thank you very much. And hope that it's voted down. Thank you.

DIRECTOR DEWOLF. Is there any other comments for or against this item. You can come up for the microphone. Okay seeing no other comments public hearing is now closed. Is there a motion from the City Council.

I'll make a motion to go with staff's recommendation in denying the request.

There's a motion to deny. Is there a second?

Second.

All right. There's a motion and a second. Any discussion?

My only question would be for staff. There's no entryway from the... our, where all the warehouses are, what do they call it, the industrial park, to head into this area right now? Because I can see both sides' points, right? One, the neighborhood, I can understand their point of views, but then it's right near the industrial park as well on the other side, right? So I can see that point. There's no entryway from Constitution or Republic Drive or anything like that into that property?

Yes.

Jaime Acevedo, Planning and Zoning Director. For the record, no councilman there is not. The only entrance is off of Palm Drive. There's lots to the west and there's lots to the north. So his only avenue is to come in.

Any open streets there that they could probably purchase some of that land to make an entrance?

He would have to get with the EDC to see if they're willing to sell a portion of a lot. And then they would have to do like.

But they do have open property right there on that side to sell? I see that.

There's still a lot of vacant property out there. This is an older aerial shot, but perhaps that lot to the north is still vacant at this time.

Maybe something to look into for the developers on that side, maybe another entryway that's something y'all can look into. And maybe it could be an option, just something to look into down the road. But I do understand the residents' concerns about not having that traffic flow through their neighborhoods. So like I said, there's different options, but maybe something you can look into.

All right. Any other discussion? All right. Seeing none, all those in favor of the motion to deny, raise your right hand. All those opposed? All right, motion passes. Next item is items in public hearings, routine items 10. Just as a general reminder, the routine items of public hearings, these are all items that the Planning and Zoning Board has given a unanimous recommendation, and that recommendation is in line with the city's recommendation as well. And written comments received do not go against the recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Commission or of the city staff. So essentially, the matters are aligned on these routine items. So at this point, we will open the public hearing for all items A through E. What I would suggest is if you are for this item, You don't really need to come up and speak because it's leaning your way. If you are against the item, please feel free to come up. But is there anybody that would like to speak on this item? All right, seeing none, we will close the public hearing on items A through E. Can I get a motion to approve staff recommendation on items 10A through E? So moved.

Second.

All right, motion and a second. Any discussion? Hearing none, all those in favor, raise your right hand. All those opposed? All right, motion passes. Next item is 11A. Yes, ma'am.

Consider rejecting RFP number 2026-011, lease of City of Edinburgh property and operations of its track strip racetrack at South Texas International Airport at Edinburgh.

All right.

Is there a motion on the item?

I'll make a motion to go with the staff's recommendation.

consider rejecting RFP with discussion motion is there a second motion in a second Tom you can come up and explain this good evening mayor City Council Tom train assistant city manager we're asking to reject the bids we had two bidders for that but we would like to add some additional clauses to the existing RFP just to make some of the requirements additional requirements for the property as we had seen some of our previous complaints in the past.

So, in essence, this is a rejection to fine-tune the contract that we have in place right now?

The RFP, yes, sir. With your guidance, we're asking for allow us to put it, re-bid it out.

At this time, there's a current operator, right, of the racetrack. Are they in compliance with the lease as of today?

As of today, they are, sir.

Okay, so is there any intention to remove them at this time?

No, sir.

as long as they're in compliance with the lease correct yes sir we'll be on a month-to-month basis as we are now okay great and so my understanding right is that the the city is providing an opportunity to accept additional bids on this item the city is interested in continuing this to operate as a racetrack the staff in what was accepted was just unable to make a recommendation on what we have so this is to get that opportunity to fine-tune to receive additional proposals.

That is correct, Mayor.

All right.

Any other discussion?

All right. There was a motion and a second. All those in favor of the motion, raise your right hand. All those opposed, same sign.

Motion passes. Thank you.

All right. Moving on to consent agenda, items A through I. If I could get a motion. So moved. Second.

Motion to adopt items A through I.

ALL RIGHT, SO THERE WAS A QUESTION ON ITEMS 12A AND B. IF WE CAN GET A SHORT EXPLANATION ON THESE ITEMS, PLEASE.

FOR THE RECORD, LETTY LEIHA, DIRECTOR OF LIBRARY AND CULTURAL ARTS. WE'RE SEEKING APPROVAL TO APPLY FOR THE TEXAS COMMISSION OF THE ARTS FOR DESIGNATION FOR A CULTURAL ARTS DISTRICT. THIS DISTRICT RECOGNIZES COMMUNITIES THAT DEMONSTRATE A STRONG COMMITMENT TO THE ARTS AS A DRIVER OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, CULTURE PRESERVATION, AND COMMUNITY VITALITY, WHICH WE HAVE BEEN DOING FOR THE PAST 15 YEARS. IT'S ALSO THIS APPLICATION IS ACTUALLY A PRIORITY OF OUR 2040 ARTS, CULTURE, AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE. IT WAS ALSO A RECOMMENDATION FROM THE YOUNG MAN THAT CAME FROM HARVARD THAT SAID THAT THIS WAS IMPORTANT FOR US TOO. to go ahead and submit because this would then establish us as a hub for arts and culture here in the city, but also have a great economic impact. So there is no fiscal impact. There is no application fee or anything, but it would give us great benefits, if I can list briefly some benefits. It would increase access to grant opportunities. It would give us technical assistance and resources. THAT WOULD HELP US PROMOTE THE EVENTS THAT WE'RE ALREADY HAVING. IT WOULD ACTUALLY INCLUDE US IN A STATEWIDE TOURISM AND CULTURAL MARKETING CAMPAIGN THAT THEY ALREADY HAVE. IT WOULD ALSO HELP US WITH ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IMPACT BECAUSE IT SUPPORTS LOCAL BUSINESSES, ATTRACTS CREATIVE INDUSTRIES AND NOT ONLY FOCUSES ON THE CULTURAL ARTS BUT ALSO FOCUSES ON ENTERTAINMENT BUSINESSES THAT ALREADY EXIST AND PROMOTES BRINGING OTHER INDUSTRIES AS WELL. YOU KNOW, IT FOCUSES ON RESTAURANTS, and things that here in the city we're already creating and having here in our downtown area. It especially focuses on walkable areas, and we are located perfectly with the university, the connecting of the prominent... The... Prominent. Rockway, yes. Yes, it connects us perfectly with our arts complex that includes, of course, the EMMA, the Edinburgh Municipal Auditorium. the ACE, the auditorium. Then we just walk a few, another block, and there's the museum, Citrus Live, Sidebar, and all. And it's just a beautiful walkable area that promotes economic impact here in our city, in our downtown area.

I agree. Thank you very much. And I did see you have some really nice bullet points in the packet that very, you know, well define the benefits of this program. So thank you for making that available to the public so they can have access to that too.

Yes, and we'll continue to. There is an annual report that has to be done that we will also present to you as well.

Great, thank you. Thank you. On item 12B, on the safe streets.

Good evening, Mayor, City Councilman Mardoca Hinojosa, City Engineer. This is for a Vision Zero Action Plan, which the plan is to eliminate the fatalities and serious injuries. But more importantly, this plan would allow us to go for future funding for actual construction dollars. So that's the whole intent of the project. It's a plan, but to be able to apply for future funding for construction.

But it's outside grant funding so that we can get a plan to make our streets safer, right? And then once we get that, we can check a box that now opens up additional grant funding to make our streets safer.

Exactly. So in this round, we couldn't really apply for construction funding because we do not have a plan in place.

Great. All right. Any other discussions? seeing none all those in favor of the motion to approve items a through e I'm sorry I was a through I raise your hand all those opposed motion passes next item is item 13 any other business future items requested by the council all right seeing none next item is executive session can I get a motion to enter executive session all right motion in a second any objection to the motion seeing none motion passes TIME NOW IS 6.57, AND WE ARE ENTERING EXECUTIVE SESSION.

ITEM A, CONSULTATION WITH CITY ATTORNEY. ITEM B, CONSULTATION WITH CITY ATTORNEY REGARDING PERSONNEL MATTERS. ITEM C, DISCUSSION OF DUTIES, RESPONSIBILITIES, RENUMERATION, AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING INTERIM CITY ATTORNEY. ITEM D, DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING THE CONVEYANCE EXCHANGE RELEASE OF REAL PROPERTY. ITEM E, DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT MATTERS. NUMBER ONE, FLIP 3.0.

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. you Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. you Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. you Thank you.

All right, time now is 8.16 p.m. We are exiting executive session. Can I get a motion to get into the open? So moved. Second. All right, motion and a second. Any objection?

Hearing none, motion passes.

Okay, Mr. City Attorney, any action required based on the discussion?

Mr. Mayor, yes, sir. On item E on the executive session agenda... I am recommending a motion approving project flip 3.0 as discussed in executive session.

Is there a motion? So moved. Second. Motion and a second. Any objection to the motion? Hearing none, motion is adopted. And for this last one, I'll go ahead and do it. But I will, based on the discussion, entertain a motion to appoint Ben Alonso as our city attorney and removing the interim tax. So moved. Second. All right. Motion and a second. Any objection to the motion? All right, hearing none, motion is adopted. Congratulations, Ben.

Thank you, guys. Thank you for wanting to serve.

Any other action required at this time?

No, Mr. Mayor. That's all action that's required out of executive session.

Okay, great. There being no other action, we are adjourned.

I have, yeah. I have it.