Public Meetings - El Paso, Texas

The El Paso City Council met in Council Chambers on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, from 10:08 a.m. to 8:19 p.m., with Mayor Renard Johnson presiding. The meeting included proclamations, public comment, consent agenda action, first readings, presentations, and a range of discussion items. Council recessed from 1:34 p.m. to 3:23 p.m., including an executive session on Joseph Pickup v. City of El Paso; no action was taken. Proclamations & Recognitions - Recognized Municipal Court Week (Nov. 2-6, 2026). Presiding Judge David Boni and Judge Michelle Morales highlighted court operations and the Teen Court program. - Proclaimed October 2026 as Physical Therapy Month. The 34th annual Run, Walk and Roll fundraiser was held Oct. 25, 2026 at Ascarate Park; proceeds benefit the United Spinal Association, GEPD, and student scholarships. - Honored El Paso Holy Royal Arch Chapter No. 90 for service including Juneteenth meals, book drives, cap/gown donations, holiday food and candy events, and mentorship. - Recognized UMC El Paso's 25th anniversary of Level One Trauma Center designation on Oct. 27, 2026. UMC officials said it is the only Level 1 trauma center within a 270-mile radius, has treated over 70,000 trauma patients since designation, and had more than 3,700 trauma admissions last year. - Recognized Radford School's 116th anniversary. Officials reported that 100% of its 2026 graduates are headed to four-year colleges, with average scholarship awards of about $100,000 per senior. Public Comments & Testimony - Morning public comment covered downtown building safety and Transmountain truck traffic. Michael Clark supported safety inspections and said private property owners must be responsible for maintenance; he said he was neutral on Transmountain truck restrictions but urged proactive safety measures. Mary O'Geen supported restrictions, citing commercial-vehicle brake checks, lower speeds, and right-lane rules. Raul Caspañera urged an immediate ban on commercial traffic over Trans Mountain and use of SH 404. Sherry Mendig called for proactive infrastructure maintenance and stronger truck inspections before departures. - Many speakers urged closure of Camp East Montana. Organizations and residents represented included Border Network for Human Rights, Texas Civil Rights Project, ACLU of Texas, Sembrando Esperanza, Borderland Rainbow Center, Las Americas Immigrant Advocacy Center, Indivisible 915, and community members. They described deaths, measles/TB outbreaks, medical neglect, spoiled food, abuse, lack of legal access, and solitary confinement. Angelica Ramirez described the death of a detainee, Francisco, from septic shock. Charlotte Weiss described an 84-year-old detainee with medication denial and multiple quarantines. Mary O'Geen asked where detainees would be transferred if the facility closed. - During call to the public, Carl Dewire, NAACP El Paso branch president, urged community and school responses to the KKK costume incident. Other speakers raised animal services, street-light reporting, Chapter 380 incentives, data centers, travel/P-card concerns, and anti-abortion/pro-life views. Council suspended rules to allow additional speakers on several items. Consent Calendar and Ordinances - Approved the consent agenda as revised, including excusing an absent council member, moving items to the regular agenda, deleting items 18-22 and 38 per code enforcement and purchasing, revising item 42 to add Texas Municipal League support language, and adjusting item 45 timing. The vote was unanimous. - Approved first-reading ordinances for items 17, 23, 24, 25, and 26 unanimously. - Patricia Osman, during public comment on consent items, questioned P-card discrepancies, discretionary fund reporting, and donor influence. Discussion Items - Item 3 - Poet Laureate Program: Approved unanimously. Established the program as an official cultural arts program administered by the Museums and Cultural Affairs Department; the poet laureate will receive $4,000 per year for a two-year term, funded by hotel occupancy tax. Applications are expected to open after approval, with a finalist in March and the term beginning in May. - Item 8 - Board Appointment: Approved unanimously. Reginald D. Maynard was appointed to the Veterans Advisory Committee. - Item 34 - Camp East Montana: Approved unanimously. Directed the city manager and city attorney to draft a resolution calling for closure of ERO El Paso Camp East Montana and return to council within 30 days, including human/civil-rights concerns, public health risks, lack of transparency, and taxpayer-funding issues. - Item 45 - Fort Bliss Grant: Approved unanimously. Authorized submission of a $5 million Defense Economic Adjustment Assistance Grant application to the Texas Military Preparedness Commission for the Barreras Gate Vehicle Barrier Control System Modernization Project, with no city match and the city acting as fiscal agent. - Items 31 and 30 - Driving Change Safe Ride Initiative: Approved a memorandum of understanding with Donor Charm entities and authorized $10,000 in District 5 discretionary funds for a safe-ride/impaired-driving prevention pilot, including $20 ride vouchers and return rides. Item 31 passed 6-1; an amendment requiring a fee-structure report for private funds within 45 days was added. Item 30 passed unanimously. - Item 27 - Downtown Building Safety Plan: Approved unanimously after amendments. Directed the city manager to develop a plan for safety inspections of buildings over two stories in the downtown management district and downtown planning area, report back in 45 days with findings and a feasibility plan, evaluate requiring property owners to obtain and fund qualified inspections, and address procedures for correcting violations within 30 days. Initial emphasis was placed on nine listed properties. - Item 28 - Transmountain Truck Restrictions: Approved unanimously. Directed coordination with TxDOT to evaluate and pursue restrictions on heavy commercial traffic on Trans Mountain Road, review alternative designated truck routes, and report back in 30 days. An amendment added banning oversize/overweight state permits. EPPD reported 142 commercial vehicle inspections, more than 400 violations, and 50 vehicles placed out of service from Oct. 21-25, 2026. - Item 29 - Veterans Business Accelerator: Approved unanimously. Authorized use of $10,000 in District 5 discretionary funds for the program. - Item 32 - Travel Expense Disclosure: Approved unanimously. Directed the city attorney to prepare a resolution requiring public disclosure of city-funded travel expenses by council members and the mayor on the next regular agenda after travel is completed and reconciled, and to place the resolution on the next regular agenda. - Item 33 - Latino Art Now: Approved unanimously. Authorized $2,500 in District 8 discretionary funds for free public cultural and educational events at city museums during the Latino Art Now conference, Nov. 19-21, 2026. - Item 35 - National Infrastructure Bank: Approved unanimously. Directed preparation of a resolution supporting HR 5356, the National Infrastructure Bank Act of 2025, for adoption within 30 days and sharing with federal, state, and local officials. - Item 36 - El Paso Electric Update: Presentation only. EPE reported a $47.2 million fuel refund (about $17.54 per month for average customers from August through October), a $43 million fuel overcollection to carry forward, a proposed $52 million transmission cost recovery (about $0.98 per month), and four pending transmission CCN applications with route-dependent cost estimates: East Wind to Rattlesnake $23.3M-$30M; Pine to Caliente $76M-$96M; Tuskegee to Pine $89M-$150M; Pine to McCloud $106M-$128M. No action was taken. - Item 39 - Legate Company Chapter 380 Amendment: Approved unanimously. Extended the certificate-of-occupancy deadline to March 31, 2027, and reduced incentives from $32,944 to $29,639 by forfeiting the construction materials rebate and building construction fee rebate. - Item 37 - GAF Ramp Rehabilitation: Approved unanimously. Awarded solicitation 2026-0448 to CI Constructors Inc. for $12,096,647.56, with contract time revised to consecutive calendar days. - Item 40 - Hispanic Chamber Amendment: Approved 6-1. Removed the women-owned small business certification requirement and adjusted year-two metrics in the Procurement Excellence Boot Camp agreement, reducing year-two funding proportionately to about $26,036.62. Representative Limon voted no. - Item 41 - Stony Hill Open Space: Approved unanimously. Authorized purchase of about 63 acres for $3 million using remaining 2012 Quality of Life open-space bond funds, below the $3.46 million appraisal, and accepted a no-cost 20-foot access easement. - Item 42 - Non-ERCOT Ratepayer Protections: Approved unanimously. Directed presentation of the draft Texas Non-ERCOT Ratepayer Protection Act to the El Paso state legislative delegation and submission of a similar resolution to the Texas Municipal League for support. - Item 44 - Solar Lights Public Safety Program: Approved unanimously. Authorized a $2 million Community Project Funding request to Congresswoman Veronica Escobar for Phase 2 of the El Paso Solar Lights Public Safety Program, with no city match. - Item 43 - State Legislative Agenda Amendments: Approved unanimously. Added support for El Paso Water's customer affordability program funded by non-rate revenue and broader utility affordability language. Key Outcomes - Major directives approved: Camp East Montana closure-resolution draft due in 30 days; Transmountain truck-restriction report due in 30 days; downtown building-safety plan/feasibility report due in 45 days. - Funding authorizations approved: $5 million grant application for Fort Bliss; $12,096,647.56 ramp rehabilitation award; $3 million Stony Hill acquisition; $2 million solar-lights request; $10,000 for safe-ride pilot; $10,000 for veterans accelerator; $2,500 for Latino Art Now events. - Votes were unanimous except item 31 (6-1) and item 40 (6-1). - The meeting adjourned at 8:19 p.m. after council members submitted comments for items 28, 31, 42, and 43.

The El Paso City Council convened for a Work Session on October 26, 2026, at 9:06 AM in City Council Chambers. Mayor Johnson presided. The council immediately retired into Executive Session to discuss nine items, including seven legal claims, an application by El Paso Electric Company, and an economic development opportunity. Upon reconvening at 10:03 AM, the council voted on the discussed items. Consent Calendar - The council voted unanimously to authorize the City Attorney's office, in consultation with the City Manager, to deny the following claims: - Thalia Garay (Claim 1072) - Mercedes Avilas del Real (Claim 1210) - Andrea Minor (Claim 1100) - Melanie Deskin (Claim 1258) - Hilda Ramirez (Claim 1230) - Emanuel Tarango (Claim 1211) - The council voted unanimously to continue economic development negotiations on the project associated with HQ number 25-5335. Key Outcomes - Claim of David Roberts (Claim 1200): The motion to deny the claim passed with a vote of 6-1. Representative Acevedo voted against the motion. - Application of El Paso Electric Company (EX8): No action was taken on the company's application to amend its certificate of convenience and necessity for the Pine to Caliente Transmission Line. - Attendance: Representative Boyatrejo was excused from the meeting. Representative Canales and Representative Acevedo arrived at 9:07 AM. The work session adjourned at 10:10 AM.

The El Paso City Council convened on October 13, 2026, to consider a consent agenda, several regular agenda items, and public comments. Key actions included approval of consent items, adoption of an ordinance amending zoning for correctional facilities and halfway houses, adjustments to fee schedules for animal services and code enforcement, amendments to the 2026 Public Art Plan, and a resolution reaffirming a moratorium on automated license plate reader (ALPR) technology. A motion for a city-initiated rezoning study in the Rio Grande neighborhood failed in a tied vote broken by the Mayor. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the September 28–29, 2026 meetings. - Excused absent council members. - Authorized participation in the Rio Grande Council of Governments’ FY2027 Solid Waste Program for scrap tire disposal reimbursement. - Exempted parking meter fees north of I-10 on November 21, 2026 for WinterFest. - Approved temporary closure of rights-of-way for WinterFest 2026 Opening Day and Lights Parade. - Approved the 2026 tax roll. - Renamed March 31st as Farmworkers Appreciation Day. - Confirmed appointments and reappointments to various boards and committees. - Accepted a $3,000 donation from Saratoga Homes for District 5 Movies at the Park. - Noted campaign contribution filings. - Awarded Solicitation 2026-0436 (veterinary narcotic medication) to Midwest Veterinary Supply, Inc., for a three-year initial term ($360,727.77) with a two-year option ($240,485.18), total estimated $601,212.95. Public Comments & Testimony - Mary Olgeen (District 1): Requested city assistance for elderly homeowners facing liens due to yard upkeep; proposed undercover DWI task force in bars; expressed concern about lack of police presence on I-10 at night; reported no follow-up from El Paso Water on manhole concerns raised at prior meeting. - Ron Como: Criticized Animal Services management, stating the shelter is ranked 5 worst in Texas; called for a qualified director and funding to complete the Moorhead facility. - JD Martinez (by phone): Described near-miss traffic accidents on eight of nine outings after 7 p.m., urging improved traffic safety enforcement. - Patricia Osman: Raised transparency concerns, alleging misuse of tax dollars for a political consulting firm; criticized city officials for hindering ethics complaints and FOIA requests; opposed consent agenda campaign contributions from vendors. - Lisa Turner: Criticized council for starting late, high food insecurity (40% in El Paso vs. 17% statewide), and lack of action; proposed a food drive at WinterFest; opposed campaign contributions from police and fire unions during contract negotiations. - John Muniz: Linked rising non-emergency EMS runs to financial strain; criticized former city manager DiAgostino’s oversight; called for accountability regarding public health department workforce and food insecurity data. - Michael Ramirez: Questioned El Paso Water’s infrastructure expansion from Dell City given claims of sufficient water; asked about incentives for water usage and use of extra funds for home renovation assistance instead of low-income housing. - Sam Armijo: Opposed public art spending ($8.348 million in 2026), urging diversion to street repairs; argued council can overturn the 2006 public art ordinance. - Patricia Osman (on item 26): Argued citizens should not incur debt via certificates of obligation for art; alleged art funds were diverted to districts with candidates running for office; linked water wall project changes to data center water concerns. - Lisa Turner (on item 27): Described ALPR technology (Flock) as a national security risk due to El Paso’s proximity to Fort Bliss and White Sands; noted Flock’s priority access to cell towers; claimed usage was terminated but cameras still operate. - Bianca Arriaga (El Paso Water): Presented MOU for $6.5 million DEAAG grant for desalination plant expansion; no city cost. - Final public comment on item 27: Patricia Osman noted a Texas court ruling that Flock was unconstitutional; urged including Police Chief in the resolution. Discussion Items - Item 23: Zoning Ordinance for Correctional Facilities and Halfway Houses (Second Reading): Kevin Smith (Planning) explained amendments clarifying definitions, requiring a special permit (not by right), imposing a half-mile distance requirement from residential districts/parks/schools/ churches, and removing a two-year limitation for half wayhouses. Council approved unanimously. - Item 24: City-Initiated Rezoning Study for Rio Grande Neighborhood (District 8): Representative Canales proposed directing staff to analyze alignment of zoning with existing development; 83% of 799 parcels are nonconforming. Debate centered on cost, precedent, and outreach. The motion failed 4-4 (Mayor broke tie, voting no). - Item 25: Fee Schedule Amendments for Animal Services and Code Enforcement: Staff presented consolidated food establishment fees and new adoption fee ranges (up to $198 for dogs). Representative Chavez expressed concern about 49% increase for small restaurants; staff noted last adjustment was 2019. Council approved 6-2 (Acevedo and Nino dissented). - Item 26: 2026 Public Art Plan Amendment: Ben Fyffe (Museums) proposed reallocating $225,000 in savings from Arts Festival Plaza water wall improvements to four other projects: Eastside Regional Park ($25,000 increase for materials), railroad reconstruction storage ($10,000), a graffiti abatement pilot at Dicknati Skate Park ($40,000), and a new trailhead project in District 1 ($150,000). Debate included concerns over scope reduction and equity. Council approved 5-2-3 (Chavez, Rocha, Trejo, Nino, Pierro aye; Acevedo, Limor, Canales no). - Item 27: Resolution to Refrain from ALPR (Flock Safety) Contracts: Repeated prior council direction; passed unanimously. - Item 28: MOU with Texas Military Preparedness Commission for Desalination Plant Expansion: El Paso Water’s application for $6.5 million DEAAG grant; passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda and Farmworkers Appreciation Day: Approved unanimously. - Zoning Ordinance for Correctional Facilities/ Halfway Houses: Adopted unanimously. - Rio Grande Rezoning Study: Motion failed (4-4, mayor voting no). - Fee Schedule Amendments (Item 25): Approved 6-2 (Acevedo, Nino dissenting); later reconsidered and re-approved 5-3 (Chavez, Acevedo, Nino dissenting). - Public Art Plan Amendment (Item 26): Approved 5-2-3. - ALPR Moratorium (Item 27): Approved unanimously. - MOU for Desal Grant (Item 28): Approved unanimously.

The Mass Transit Department (Sun Metro) Board met on Tuesday, October 13, 2026. Board Chair Johnson presided with Board members Chavez, Rocha, Trejo, Nino, Fierro, Limon, Canales, and Acevedo (virtual) present. The transcript records the meeting convening at 10:37 a.m., although the agenda listed an 11:30 a.m. start; the meeting adjourned at 11:50 a.m. The board unanimously approved the consent agenda and heard an informational update on the September 20, 2026 Sun Metro Rising service modifications. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the Regular Mass Transit Department Board Meeting of September 1, 2026 (Item 26-1089). - Approved the request to excuse absent Mass Transit Department Board members (Item 26-1090). - Awarded Solicitation 2026-0118, Grounds Maintenance – Sun Metro, to Mario A. Gonzalez dba MG Evergreen (El Paso, TX) as the highest-ranked bidder under a Best Value procurement. The initial three-year term is estimated at $289,213.65, with a two-year option estimated at $192,811.10, for a total five-year estimated award of $482,024.75. The agenda’s item detail lists the total as $482,027.75, a source discrepancy. Funding is from Sun Metro Operating Funds. - Awarded Solicitation 2026-0407, Lubricants and Oil Sampling (Re-Bid), to Lab One, Inc. (Phoenix, AZ) as the lowest responsive and responsible bidder under a Low Bid procurement. The initial three-year term is estimated at $161,550.00, with a two-year option estimated at $107,700.00, for a total five-year estimated award of $269,250.00. The agenda also lists the company as One Lab, Inc. in its address line, a source discrepancy. Funding is from Sun Metro Operating Funds. - Authorized the City Manager to establish funding sources, make necessary budget transfers, execute contract documents, and exercise future options for both awards. - The consent agenda was approved by one motion made by Board member Fierro and seconded by Board member Limon; the vote passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak, and no public comments were made. Discussion Items - Staff presented an update on Sun Metro Rising service modifications implemented September 20, 2026, in response to community feedback received after the June 2026 Sun Metro Rising system restructuring. The stated goal of the adjustments was to improve accessibility, reliability, and efficiency across the system. - Route changes were made to Routes 2 and 65. Route 2 was adjusted to maintain service to the La Faye Clinic and a nearby senior center; Route 65 addressed concerns about service along Paisano serving the Chairman Apartments and the Ill de Plata Senior Center. - Seven routes that were consistently running behind Sun Metro’s minimum 90% on-time performance target received minor schedule adjustments. These routes were in the central, northeast, far east, and downtown areas; adjustments also addressed construction delays, heavy congestion, and Fort Bliss gate congestion by adding peak-hour service. - Staff explained that contracted service with Project Amistad was realigned because some routes formerly considered low-ridership had grown, raising capacity concerns with Project Amistad’s smaller vehicles. Three such routes were moved back to Sun Metro’s larger in-house buses, while three lower-ridership routes—Edgmir, Pebble Hills, and Route 62 in the Mission Valley area—were moved to Project Amistad. - The changes were made outside Sun Metro’s normal six-month evaluation framework because urgent fixes were needed. Staff will continue to evaluate ridership trends, on-time performance, operator/customer service/supervisor input, and direct rider feedback. The next round of public engagement for additional service modifications is planned for early spring 2027. - Board member Nino asked about Sun Metro’s District 5 microtransit pilot ridership. Staff responded that ridership grew from roughly two to four passengers to 70 or 80 passengers, with Nino noting the previous month’s numbers appeared to exceed 400 riders. Nino expressed strong support for the pilot and for public transportation access to jobs, health care, and groceries. - Board member Chavez asked for any community feedback on the recent route changes to be sent to her office. Staff cited a service request for a new subdivision/reserve area and another area under review. Chavez raised a concern about Route 14; staff clarified that Route 19 was the route serving that community, and Chavez said she would follow up. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda, including both contract awards, was approved unanimously. - Item 5 was an informational presentation; the board took no action on it. - Staff will provide the requested route feedback to Board member Chavez’s office and will continue studying ridership and on-time performance before returning for public input around early spring 2027. - The board voted unanimously to adjourn at 11:50 a.m.; the meeting was followed by a motion to reconvene for a separate meeting.

The El Paso City Council held a work session on October 12, 2026, beginning at 9:01 AM. Mayor Pro Tem Chavez presided. The meeting covered the adoption of a strategic plan and policy for the El Paso Museum of Art (EPMA), an update on the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, the presentation of the Animal Shelter Advisory Committee (ASAC) annual report, a public comment regarding a neighborhood dispute, and an executive session. Public Comments & Testimony - Kyle Elliott (representing the Rancho Sereno Homeowners Association) addressed council regarding Executive Session item EX1. He read a statement requesting the city enforce zoning, permitting, noise, and lighting violations against the Padel Ranch property adjacent to their neighborhood. The HOA opposed commercial rezoning or expansion of the site. (Correspondence was requested to be entered into the record.) Discussion Items Item 1 & 2: El Paso Museum of Art (EPMA) Strategic Plan & Collections Policy - Presentation: Ben Fyffe (Managing Director, Museums and Cultural Affairs) and Edward Hayes (Director, EPMA) presented the "Frontera Forward: Bridging Art & Community at the Border" Strategic Plan for FY 2027-FY 2031. This is a core document required for the museum's reaccreditation process with the American Alliance of Museums. - Highlights: Staff highlighted recent accolades: 2018 National Medal for Museums, over $4.25 million in facility improvements, a 26% increase in attendance, and a 10% growth in the collection (including over 60 new works valued at $2 million, plus a $6 million donation). The 2024 Border Biennial was featured on the front page of the New York Times Arts section. - Strategic Plan Goals: The plan focuses on embodying the El Paso community, expanding frontiers to become a regional art leader, preserving cultural heritage (noting the museum holds the second largest collection of retablos in the nation), providing a visitor-first experience, and emboldening fundraising capacity. - Questions from Council: Representative Nino inquired about visitor demographics (over 30% of visitors for a recent Frida Kahlo exhibit were from outside the region). Representative Trejo asked about plans to expand the art school and strengthen fundraising, to which staff described expanded class offerings, a $500,000 naming opportunity, and a consultant-led fundraising strategy. - Action on Item 1: A motion was made by Representative Canales, seconded by Representative Boyar Trejo, to adopt the resolution for the Strategic Plan. The motion passed unanimously. - Action on Item 2: A motion was made by Representative Canales, seconded by Representative Limon, to approve the updated Collections Care and Management Policy. The policy establishes clear financial approval thresholds (purchases over $50,000 require council approval, over $3,500 require deputy city manager approval) and creates an interdepartmental loan form for city museums. The motion passed unanimously. Item 3: American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds Update - Presentation: Elda Rodriguez Hefner (Office of the Comptroller) and Sasho Andonoski (Office of Management and Budget) provided a summary update. The city received $154 million in ARPA funds. No council action was requested at this time. - Spending Status: Of the total allocation (74% Public Health & Safety, 17% Community Response, 9% Economic Response), 99.4% of the funds have been expended across 49 projects. A remaining balance of approximately $909,000 is projected to be unspent. - Next Steps: Staff will return on November 9th with a recommendation to allocate the $909,000 to offset eligible general fund expenses. A key identified need is replacing routers for fire department fleet vehicles (a $1.6 million need). Staff emphasized that using ARPA funds for this one-time purchase would reduce the burden on the general fund. - Questions from Council: Representative Trejo asked about remaining projects (body worn cameras, public health program, economic development). Representative Limon inquired about buildings purchased with ARPA funds, including the Moorhead building (used by Animal Services and Office of Emergency Management) and properties for the health department. Staff confirmed all ongoing maintenance for purchased buildings is in the budget. - Data Request: Mayor Pro Tem Chavez requested data on the economic impact of business grants provided through ARPA. Staff committed to bringing this information to the November 9th presentation. Item 4: 2026 Animal Shelter Advisory Committee (ASAC) Annual Report - Presentation: Representative Canales, in his capacity as Chair of the ASAC, presented the 2026 annual report. - Committee Operations: The 13-member committee held 11 meetings over 18 hours, discussing topics such as spay/neuter access, animal ordinances, shelter conditions, and community resources. - Recommendations: The committee made five key recommendations to the council, which were adopted unanimously by the ASAC: 1. Establish recurring funding for sustained high-volume spay/neuter services. (Noting that the FY2027 budget included $122,000 for a single large event, expected to provide 1,000-1,400 additional surgeries). 2. Strengthen regional coordination and shared responsibility for animal welfare. 3. Maintain and modernize animal services facilities, equipment, and fleet (noting vehicles are beyond their useful life). 4. Enhance code enforcement and compliance balanced with resources like pet food assistance and public education. 5. Support animal services employees by strengthening career pathways and reducing turnover. - Questions from Council: Representative Rocha acknowledged that many recommendations were already being implemented. Representative Nino asked about a potential partnership with Greater Good Charities for additional spay/neuter events. Key Outcomes - Resolution 26-1101 Adopted: The council unanimously adopted the El Paso Museum of Art's "Frontera Forward" Strategic Plan for FY 2027-2031. - Resolution 26-1102 Adopted: The council unanimously approved the updated Collections Care and Management Policy for the City of El Paso Museum Collections, with an effective date of October 12, 2026. - ARPA Non-Action: No action was taken on the ARPA item. Staff will return on November 9, 2026, with a formal recommendation for the remaining funds. - Executive Session Actions: - EX1 (Patricia Alvarez/Padel Ranch): Council authorized the City Attorney, in consultation with the City Manager, to file a lawsuit against Padel Ranch Health and Wellness Center and Patricia Alvarez to gain compliance with Title 20 of the City Code. - EX2, EX3, EX4: No action was taken on the Ysleta Del Sur Pueblo litigation (EX2), the Real Estate Division update (EX3), or the Meta Platforms grant application (EX4). - Adjourned: The work session adjourned at 12:01 PM.

The El Paso City Council met on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at 9:00 AM in Council Chambers and virtually. Mayor Renard U. Johnson presided. The meeting began with proclamations and included a consent agenda, public comment, discussion on 15 regular agenda items, and votes on various resolutions, ordinances, and procurement awards. Proclamations & Recognitions - Archtober Month: Proclaimed October 2026 as Archtober Month, celebrating architecture and design with events including a Lego build, walking tours, and a STEAM fall camp at La Nube Children’s Museum. AIA El Paso chapter president John Reyes and others spoke. - Digital Inclusion Week & Cybersecurity Awareness Month: Proclaimed October 4–10 as Digital Inclusion Week and October 2026 as Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Andrea Tires of Borderplex Connect described the digital divide and programs distributing Wi-Fi hotspots and skills training. - Childhood Cancer Awareness Month: Proclaimed September 2026 as El Paso Children’s Hospital Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Ali Valdespino noted that the hospital’s pediatric oncology unit has diagnosed over 1,000 new patients since 2014 and is the only COG center within 278 miles. A childhood cancer survivor, Rebel, rang the bell. - Sergeant Jose L. Magdaleno Day: Honored Sgt. Magdaleno for his Vietnam War service and receipt of the Purple Heart after a 50‑year delay. He received the Silver Star and other decorations. - Robert Ash Retirement Celebration: Recognized Robert Ash for 35 years of service as executive director and legal advisor to the City of El Paso Employees Retirement Trust. Council members thanked him and his family. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved with revisions: Item 26 (fee schedule amendment for Animal Services and Code Enforcement) was postponed for two weeks; Item 27 (amendment to Chapter 380 Agreement for 201 East San Antonio) was deleted per the Economic & International Development Department. - Routine approvals included: - Interlocal agreement with UMC for blood product stewardship (Item 3). - MOU with FBI for EMT trainings (Item 4). - Site development plan at 424 Redd Road (Item 5). - Termination and new Multiple Use Agreement for Lincoln Park (Items 6 & 7 – pulled for separate discussion and approved after questions). - Assignment of vending machine contract (Item 8). - License agreement with El Paso Community Foundation’s Borderland Rescue Fund for pet food/hygiene storage (Item 9). - Board appointment of Nathan Coleman to Accessibility Advisory Committee (Item 10). - Notation items (delinquent hotel tax, P‑Card transactions, campaign contributions) (Items 11‑14). - Purchase orders for police motorcycle parts, zoo improvements, rodents/rabbits, zoo hay, and other procurements (Items 15‑18). Public Comments & Testimony - Wanda Helgison (Border Rack) spoke in support of consent item 3, the blood product interlocal agreement, citing trauma death statistics and the need for pre‑hospital whole blood. - Marco Sanchez opposed Item 28 (alcohol exception near Americas High School), citing recent security incidents at the school and the 300‑foot buffer zone’s importance. - Mary Olgeen spoke against items 29‑32 (SIB loans for bike paths), arguing bike lanes are little used and poorly maintained, and questioned the need for more debt. - Patricia Osman raised concerns on the consent agenda: conflict of interest on Item 9, uncollected hotel taxes, and questioned a $1,250 P‑Card expense to Fair Data LLC, a political consulting firm. She also criticized the alcohol exception on Item 28. - During Call to the Public, multiple citizens addressed non‑agenda topics: Mary Olgeen on water manhole damage on Westside streets; Patricia Osman on First Amendment rights; Marco Sanchez on AI literacy programs; JD Martinez on alleged mistreatment at a city dump; John Moniz on economic development; Claudia Contreras on speed bumps, animal safety, and school bus conditions; Marcy Chavez on high electric bills and distrust of city leadership. Discussion Items - Item 19: Ordinance authorizing sale of 0.5‑acre surplus property (Continental Industrial Park) to Double H Contracting, Inc. for $209,228 (above appraised value). Approved unanimously. - Item 20: Special permit for infill development (duplex) at 8009 Mitzie Ram Place, reducing lot width from 70 to 50 feet. Staff reported two opposition emails citing traffic/parking concerns. Approved unanimously. - Item 21: Ordinance requiring disclosures on commercial solicitations related to water quality/safety. Representative Canales explained it targets companies impersonating public utilities. Approved unanimously. - Item 22: Resolution authorizing up to $1,000 from District 8 discretionary funds for an NAACP civil rights exhibit at the El Paso Museum of History, coinciding with the 89th annual Texas NAACP convention. Approved unanimously. - Items 23‑25: Procurement approvals: toll system maintenance ($250,000, one year, sole source), Bibliotheca library equipment ($241,700.53, three years, sole source), and armored car services from Night Eyes Protective Services ($3,869,712, three years, best value). All approved unanimously. - Item 28: Request for alcohol sales exception within 300 feet of a daycare/school (Paso del Norte Children’s Development Center) at 12275 Pellicano. The applicant Shalem Haribhai stated the prior bar operated 13 years with minimal issues. Council failed the motion 3‑5 (Rocha, Fierro, Canales in favor; Chavez, Acevedo, Boyar Trejo, Niño, Limon opposed). - Items 29‑32: Four related resolutions accepting State Infrastructure Bank loans totaling $4,401,000 for Buffalo Soldier/Brown Street Shared Use Path and Downtown Bicycle/McRae Boulevard Shared Use Path projects, at 3.56% interest over 25 years, and rescinding previous capital asset sale fund allocations for the local match. Staff noted executed SIB loans now total $29.087 million for FY24‑28 TIP. Approved unanimously. - Item 33: Resolution authorizing submission of a $4 million grant application to Meta’s “Future is for Everyone” fund for the El Paso Climate Action Implementation Program, with three components: solar lights ($2M), water smart systems at parks ($1M), and Vision Zero quick‑build projects near schools ($1M). No city match required. Representatives Trejo, Limón, Acevedo, and Chavez requested that school lists be revisited for equity (Ysleta ISD, Canutillo, etc.). Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved with revisions postponing Item 26 and deleting Item 27. - Items 6 & 7 (Lincoln Park MUA) approved after separate discussion (unanimous). - Item 28 (alcohol exception) failed on a 3‑5 vote. - All other discussion items passed unanimously, including property sale, infill development permit, water disclosure ordinance, NAACP exhibit funding, three procurements, four SIB loan resolutions, and the Meta grant application. - No motions were reconsidered during the meeting. The meeting adjourned at 12:00 PM.

The El Paso City Council held a work session on September 28, 2026, presided over by Mayor Renard U. Johnson. The session began at 9:01 AM and covered two regular agenda items, followed by an executive session and votes on eight related items. Discussion Items - Streets and Maintenance – Facility Maintenance Audit A2026-08 (Item 1): Chief Internal Auditor Adrian Serrano presented an audit of the Facility Maintenance Division (FMD). Key findings included incomplete facility inventories (FMD manages 302 facilities), outdated policies and procedures (last updated in 2019), inaccurate work order closeout timelines (physical repairs averaging under 2 days but administrative processing averaging 15 days based on a sample of 30 work orders from January 2026), and an insufficient operational budget (initial $5.7 million general fund budget increased to approximately $6.2 million through transfers, with $5.8 million spent by late August). FMD leadership responded with corrective plans, including a facility condition assessment (22% complete, targeting 25% per year), a new GIS-based inventory, and updated procedures. Representative Limon questioned the sustainability of relying on one-time budget transfers, and Representative Chavez inquired about the link between the condition assessment and daily maintenance needs. Key Outcomes - Audit A2026-08 (Item 1): Council voted unanimously to accept the results of the Streets and Maintenance Facility Maintenance Audit. - Public Health Cybersecurity Assessment (Item 2): Council voted unanimously to accept the audit. - EX1 (Carlos Jaile v. City of El Paso): Council unanimously authorized hiring outside counsel and necessary experts. - EX2 (Josh Dagda v. Laura Prine): Council took no action. - EX3 (El Paso Electric Co. – Natural Gas Facility, 366 MW): Council authorized the city attorney and city manager to continue settlement negotiations with a counteroffer holding ratepayers harmless. The motion passed 6-2, with Representatives Acevedo and Canales voting against. - EX4 (El Paso Electric Co. – Solar/Battery Storage, 100 MW): Council unanimously authorized continuing settlement negotiations. - EX5 (El Paso Electric Co. – Fuel Cost Reconciliation): Council unanimously authorized continuing settlement negotiations. - EX6 (Economic Development – HQ25-5989): Council unanimously authorized continuing negotiations. - EX7 (Economic Development – HQ27-ECON-1310): Council unanimously authorized continuing negotiations. - EX8 (Economic Development – HQ27-ECON-1298): Council voted 6-2 to deny the Texas Economic Development Fund (TED) application, with Representatives Piero and Limon voting against the denial.

The El Paso City Council met on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 9:00 AM in Council Chambers, City Hall, and virtually. The meeting included mayoral proclamations, public comment, consent agenda, and action on several ordinances and resolutions. Key decisions included approving a motion to remove all Flock Safety automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras from city property within 60 days and directing the City Manager to refrain from entering into future contracts for fixed networked ALPR technology without Council approval. The Council also approved the El Paso County 911 District FY 2026-2027 budget, reallocated $2.5 million in HOME funds from a first-time homebuyer program to affordable multifamily housing, and adopted ordinances updating tattoo studio regulations, public utility communications, and floodplain administrator qualifications. Consent Calendar - Approved with revisions (striking and replacing language on item 19, correcting ordinance citation on item 21, adding co-sponsor to items 25 and 26). Items 7 and 16 were moved to the regular agenda. The consent agenda as revised passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 25 & 26 (Flock Safety ALPR cameras): Multiple speakers urged removal, citing Fourth Amendment concerns, privacy risks, and lack of transparency. One speaker noted Flock software runs on outdated Android 8.1 with no security patches; another reported nationwide misuse by law enforcement. A speaker from Sembrando Esperanza Coalition supported the items and offered volunteer help for removal. - Call to the Public (non-agenda): 31 speakers addressed various topics: - Several speakers criticized El Paso Animal Services for suspending rescue partner Pause of Promise after they raised concerns about animal care; asked for independent investigation and restoration of partnership. - One speaker reported children going hungry and food banks receiving only coffee creamers; urged Council to address food insecurity. - Others discussed library fees for non-residents, EMS optimization, racial disparities in policing, and the need for transparency in city contracts. - Public comment on consent items: A speaker questioned broad authority for city officials to sign “any necessary documents” (item 6), and another criticized donating $1,000 for a dance event while children go hungry (items 9 and 10). Discussion Items - Item 7 – Substantial Amendment to HOME Program: Staff proposed reallocating approximately $2.5 million in unfunded HOME funds from a first-time homebuyer program to affordable multifamily housing, citing a median home price of $279,000 vs. a maximum allowable purchase price of $226,000 under federal rules. Council discussed the need for first-time homebuyer support and alternative programs. The resolution passed unanimously after being moved from consent. - Item 16 – Change Order 3 for Landfill Project: Approved a $123,989.25 change order for a fire department connection system at the Greater El Paso Landfill. A discrepancy in completion dates was clarified; the motion passed unanimously. - Item 20 – Helistop Special Permit: Second reading of an ordinance granting a special permit for a helistop at Fire Station 35 (12230 Pine Springs Dr.). One public commenter raised safety concerns about power lines and nearby neighborhoods. The permit was approved 7-1 (Representative Acevedo dissenting). - Item 25 – Removal of Flock Safety ALPR Cameras: Council debated the legality of removal within 60 days given contract terms (Section 10.1 prohibits city removal). An amendment was added allowing bagging/covering cameras as an interim measure for an additional 30 days if full removal not possible. The item passed unanimously. - Item 26 – Ban on Future Fixed ALPR Contracts: Directed the City Manager to refrain from entering into any contract for fixed networked ALPR cameras unless authorized by Council. An amendment added language allowing the City Manager, Police Department, or a Council member to bring forward a proposal for future consideration. The item passed unanimously. - Item 27 – El Paso County 911 District FY 2026-2027 Budget: Presented as flat revenue; using rainy day funds. Approved unanimously. - Item 21 – Tattoo Studio Registration Amendments: Ordinance requiring inspection before license issuance, specifying inspection hours (12 PM–5 PM), and allowing denial for refusing entry. Passed unanimously. - Item 22 – Public Utility Communications Ordinance: Requires utilities to present filings to Council at the next available meeting. Amendments corrected language; passed unanimously. - Items 23 & 24 – Floodplain Administrator Amendments: Changed qualification from Texas licensed professional engineer to Texas certified floodplain manager (aligned with HR job specs). Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Flock Safety Cameras (Item 25): Approved directing the City Manager to remove all Flock ALPR cameras from city property/right-of-way within 60 days; if not possible, all cameras must be bagged/covered within 60 days and fully removed within 90 days. Vote: unanimous. - Future ALPR Contracts (Item 26): Approved direction to refrain from entering into contracts for fixed networked ALPR cameras unless Council authorizes; City Attorney to draft a binding resolution within 30 days. Vote: unanimous. - HOME Fund Reallocation (Item 7): Approved reallocating $2.5 million from first-time homebuyer program to affordable multifamily housing. Vote: unanimous. - 911 District Budget (Item 27): Approved FY 2026-2027 budget. Vote: unanimous. - Public Safety Regulations: Adopted ordinances for tattoo studios, public utility communications, and floodplain administrator qualifications. All passed unanimously. - Note on Auto Theft Data: Chief Petty stated that since the Flock system was shut down, auto thefts increased 62%. - Correction on Contract Process: The City Manager clarified that the Police Chief followed internal policies when initially entering the ALPR grant; the new process requires Council direction.

On September 14, 2026, at 9:01 AM, the El Paso City Council held a work session in Council Chambers and virtually, with Mayor Renard Johnson presiding and a quorum present. The council received staff updates on the Meta Platforms community agreement and the FY26 Vision Zero program, heard public comment on both topics, and later acted on executive session claim items. Public Comments & Testimony - John Muniz opposed the way the Meta community agreement had been politicized and criticized several council members by name for rhetoric he said drives business away. He warned that the city faces rising contractual obligations of nearly $30 million split between unions, while property tax exemptions reduce revenue, and urged council to act on public safety data and recommendations from deputy city managers. - Patricia Osman, speaking on the Meta item, expressed opposition to the project and called the presentation 'double speak and gaslighting.' She said Meta is the wrong type of business for El Paso, will harm residents through pollution and lower property values, questioned the claimed household savings and job numbers, and criticized transparency, including NDAs. She stated her family has been on the land over 400 years and she will continue to protect it. - Patricia Osman, speaking on Vision Zero, said the presentation lacked full data on the effectiveness of completed improvements. She cited resident and business opposition to roundabouts and bike lane changes, and asserted that work sessions are being used to 'slide things under the rug.' Discussion Items Meta Platforms Community Agreement Update - Fernando Berjano and Omar Martinez of Strategic and Legislative Affairs presented an update on the council's June 23, 2026 directive to draft a community agreement and regional framework with Meta. Staff held technical work sessions at UTEP on August 21, 2026 with UTEP, EPCC, Workforce Solutions Borderplex, El Paso County, El Paso Electric, and El Paso Water, using the city's Climate Action Plan as a framework. - Stakeholders identified priorities including hiring and training El Pasoans first for Meta's 300 permanent positions; residential energy-efficiency weatherization to lower utility bills; energy efficiency in public facilities; water conservation and green infrastructure; expanding the 915 Tree Keepers program; neighborhood mini-grants; and resilience hubs. - Omar Martinez reported that Meta released its $1 billion 'Future Is for Everyone' grant fund that morning. Staff plan to bring a city application in two weeks; applications are due October 19, 2026. Each entity may submit one application, projects must be implementable within one year, and the program is administered by the third-party platform Change X with internal evaluation. Eligible applicants include local governments, nonprofits, school districts, and universities. - City staff had proposed a replenishing annual program fund and an oversight committee of regional stakeholders, but Meta's current program uses an internal evaluation committee; staff will continue advocating for community representation. - Staff stated Meta has made no commitments, specific allocations, or implementation schedule. Meta indicated intent to increase local staff, participate in stakeholder meetings, and hold community meetings across all council districts. Mayor Johnson's letter to Meta and Meta's response helped shape the application strategy. - Rep. Cynthia Boyar Trejo gave a statement describing prior council actions on data centers and noting that terminating the 380 agreement could expose taxpayers to liability and would not guarantee ending construction because Meta already owns the property. She asked that partner agencies and Meta present when the community agreement comes back to council. Council members also asked about expanding stakeholders to include ISDs, neighborhood associations, and nonprofits, and about who controls fund decisions; staff said invitations to ISDs and nonprofits are coming, and they will ask Meta about local control. FY26 Vision Zero Program Update - Ana Zendt of the Capital Improvement Department presented the FY26 Vision Zero update. Vision Zero was adopted in 2023 to end roadway fatalities, with Safe Routes to School adopted in 2024. - FY26 education and outreach included two walk-to-school days, five bike rodeos, participation in La Nube STEAM Discovery Day, and the third annual May bike safety event at the plaza with roughly 920 attendees. - The city's bike plan, adopted in 2016, is being updated. Staff surveyed at 14 community events and collected more than 1,000 survey responses; a draft will come back to council before the end of 2026. - The National Center for Safe Routes to School awarded $10,000 for a quick build project at Lydia Patterson Institute, including curb extensions, crosswalks, and signage. - Safe Routes to Parks bond projects are in early design, with construction estimated to start in summer 2027. - Quick build projects are being implemented under Vision Zero at locations including Sun Valley, Edgemere, Northwestern, and Ford Boulevard; the first quick build, at Canes Middle School, is becoming permanent. A public call produced 53 applications; about 26 qualified based on crash history or the high-injury network, and about 8 projects were selected within budget for design and spring construction. A five-way intersection in Sunset Heights with a recent fatality was among the selected locations. - The FY23 Safe Streets and Roads for All grant of about $9 million, plus match, was delayed by the federal discretionary freeze but has now been signed; it includes safe routes to school, intersection safety, quick builds, education, and a signature reconstruction of North Yarpur Drive. - Fatalities declined from 83 in 2023 to 70 in 2024 and 53 in 2025. The pedestrian fatality rate from 2020 to 2024 fell to 2.33 deaths per 100,000 people. Mayor Johnson praised the city's progress from being ranked the 17th most dangerous pedestrian city to one of only 20 of the 101 largest cities. - In response to council questions, staff said they are working with Streets and Maintenance and ESD on bike lane cleaning and maintenance, considering an adopted bike lane program and minimum standards, engaging all three school districts, and treating Alabama as a priority corridor under the bike plan and Safe Streets and Roads for All funding. Key Outcomes - No action was taken on the Meta community agreement update or the Vision Zero update; both were informational. - The council voted unanimously to enter executive session and later returned. - EX1 – Claim of Lorenzo Diaz, Claim 720: Motion passed unanimously authorizing the City Attorney's Office, in consultation with the City Manager, to deny the claim and take all necessary steps. - EX2 – Claim of Menda Wangchuk Dorji, Claim 881: Motion passed 7-1 authorizing denial of the claim; Rep. Acevedo voted no. - EX3 – Cities of Houston, San Antonio, and El Paso v. State of Texas: no action. - EX4 – Virtual currency kiosk/ATM regulation ordinance: no action. - The work session adjourned at 11:07 AM.