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COLUMBUS – The May 13 council meeting featured conversations surrounding various TxDOT projects as well as a recap of the discussion surrounding funding for the local volunteer fire department.
The council began the proceedings by confirming the council members who entered into new terms after running unopposed in the last election cycle. Paige Sciba, Michael Ridlen and Chuck Rankin each gave an oath of office to move into their next two-year term.
City Manager Donald Warschak gave an update on several TxDOT projects and the Midtown Park improvement project.
TxDOT has contractors working on an I-10 expansion project that is expected to take several years to complete. TxDOT has expressed willingness to update the city with information on potential road closings. Also, the re-paving project for U.S. 90 and S.H. 71 is scheduled to begin on June 10.
Midtown Park should see construction of a new pickle ball court begin next week.
Constable Richard LaCourse discussed with the council some of the discussion involved in a fire department budget workshop with the county and several municipal officials. After consulting several lawyers, those present concluded that an emergency services district covering every fire department in the county would be the ideal option for gaining sustainable funding each year.
The most recent ESD election covered just three departments and failed in the polls. As of now, three departments have agreed to this course of action while seven are still deliberating amongst themselves.
The next council meeting will be on Tuesday, May 28 at 5:30 p.m. at the Municipal Court at 605 Spring St.
