Public Meetings - Fredericksburg, Texas

The Fredericksburg City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 9:00 AM at New City Hall at East Campus. The meeting lasted approximately four hours and covered a wide range of topics including zoning text amendments, conditional use permits, a development plat with a thoroughfare alignment study, a sidewalk ordinance update, and ceremonial recognitions. Ceremonial Matters - The Electric Department was recognized for achieving 40 years with no loss of time due to accidents, a record honored by Texas Electric Cooperatives. Kyle, the superintendent, credited a culture of discipline and training begun in 1985. - Brian Roeder and Christian Castruita were recognized for designing and installing new frost-free dog park water fountains, saving the city over $12,000 and using local parts for easy repairs. - Mayor Hoover proclaimed the week of April 12–18, 2026, as Public Safety Telecommunicators Week in honor of the Gillespie County Communications Center. Consent Calendar - Approved the City Council minutes for March 17, 2026. - Approved the release of 0.09 acres of unimproved right-of-way within The Settlement on Town Creek Subdivision. - Ratified the Convention & Visitors Board appointment of Nicole Whorton (Fischer & Wieser). - All consent items were approved unanimously by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - On Z-2601 (sexually oriented businesses, vape shops, etc.): - George Studer expressed support for the ordinance but urged continued monitoring of gambling and bookstore definitions. - John Willoughby questioned the 500-foot separation for vape shops, noting a lack of supporting studies, and suggested the industrial loop area might be inconsistent with the 2024 comprehensive plan. - Dan McCoy (CEO, Hill Country Chocolate) argued the amendment contradicts the comprehensive plan, stated that no federal statute mandates 10% land availability for sexually oriented businesses, and said adding the use to M2 expands allowed uses rather than restricting them. He recommended tabling the item. - A citizen expressed concern that the ordinance is too restrictive for future harmful substances (e.g., KAPA). - Georgia Patrick noted that 500 feet from schools is insufficient to deter students. - On Z-2605 (Century 21 CUP): - Dwight (property owner) and Karen, along with Danielle (delegated supervisor), spoke in favor, emphasizing their local roots, the service-oriented nature of the business, and that the building would remain unchanged. They argued that Century 21 is a locally operated franchise, not a chain. - No speakers opposed the item. - On Z-2606 (Frisky Kitty Cafe CUP): - No public comments were made. - On P-2425 (development plat and Frederick Road alignment): - Michael Brayton (adjacent property owner) supported keeping the original alignment (Alternative 1), noting his property was purchased with knowledge of the thoroughfare plan. - Micah King (attorney for applicant) highlighted the developer's voluntary offer to annex, contribute to road improvements, and noted the project would advance comprehensive plan goals for tourism and workforce. - Jesse Barker spoke in favor of the Waldorf Astoria project, emphasizing economic benefits and low density. - Nikila Davis (business owner on Goehmann Lane) opposed a bypass on Goehmann Lane, citing impacts on the quiet character. - Commissioner Charles Olfers (Gillespie County) supported keeping Alternative 1 and opposed Alternative 3 due to impacts on homes near Main Street. - Charlie Keeney urged prioritizing community impact over money. - Keith Settling (property owner on Goehmann Lane) objected to potential road widening, stating he was not notified and that it would affect historic family properties. - Marvin (resident near the creek) noted that a bridge on Alternative 1 would cut off access to creek property and affect utility manholes. - Grant Peterson urged keeping the northeast bypass option for future traffic loads. - John Crinwell asked about plans for the existing bridge (none currently). Discussion Items Z-2601: Text Amendments – Sexually Oriented Businesses, Vape Shops, Game of Skill Parlors, Tattoo Studios - Staff (Cliff Cross) explained the amendments add definitions, designate permitted zoning districts, and impose locational restrictions (e.g., 500 feet from schools for vape shops, 1,500 feet between vape shops). Sexually oriented businesses are only allowed in M-2 district via conditional use permit. Existing businesses are grandfathered as legal non-conforming. - City Attorney Mick McKamie clarified that the city cannot ban sexually oriented businesses under the First Amendment; the ordinance is restrictive, not permissive, and based on studies of secondary effects. The 10% land availability guideline is a court-derived guide, not a statute. - Council discussion addressed consistency with the comprehensive plan, protection of residential areas, and the need for clear definitions to avoid inconsistent enforcement. Z-2604: Text Amendment – Multifamily in C-1 District - Staff proposed requiring a conditional use permit for multifamily developments in C-1, aligning with requirements for condos and townhomes. No negative impact on existing projects was foreseen. Approved. Z-2605: Conditional Use Permit – Century 21 at 408 W. Main St. - The applicant requested a CUP to operate a standardized business (real estate office) in the Historic Shopping District Overlay. P&Z recommended denial, finding it meets the definition of a standardized business. - Council heard arguments that the business is locally operated and the building unchanged. A supermajority (4 votes) is needed to overturn P&Z denial. The vote was 3-2 to approve (Councilmembers Hoover, Kirchner, and Watson in favor; Klein and Eidson opposed), so the motion failed. The CUP was denied. Z-2606: Conditional Use Permit – Frisky Kitty Cafe at 1209 E. Main St. - Applicant April Laird described a cat cafe with separate food and cat areas, partnering with local shelters, offering cat yoga, and meeting health standards. Staff recommended approval as a restaurant-limited use with accessory cat room. P&Z approved. - Council approved with one abstention (Councilmember Eidson due to a business relationship). Z-2607: Conditional Use Permit – Drive-Through at 720 S. Adams St. - Applicant Kevin Spraggins requested an updated CUP after the previous one expired. All approvals (engineering, fire marshal, etc.) were in place. P&Z recommended approval. Council approved with one abstention (Councilmember Eidson). Ordinance 2026-19: Amendment to Chapter 26 – Sexually Oriented Businesses - Staff presented updates to operational and licensing regulations, aligning with the zoning amendments. Approved. P-2425: Development Plat for 405 Goehmann Lane and Frederick Road Alignment Study - This item involved a development plat for a proposed Waldorf Astoria resort (107 acres, low density) and consideration of the Frederick Road thoroughfare alignment. Three alternatives were evaluated by traffic consultant Kelly Rees (Kimley-Horn): Alternative 1 (original route via Friendship Lane), Alternative 2 (east along US 290), Alternative 3 (via Goehmann Lane). Alternative 1 scored highest in the study. - The developer requested an alternative alignment to avoid bisecting the property, but did not propose a specific route. Extensive discussion covered annexation, ETJ control, economic benefits (estimated $5M property tax, $4.5M HOT, $3.5-4M sales tax in year three), and the long-term viability of the thoroughfare. - Council tabled the item to the May 5, 2026 meeting, contingent on the developer applying for voluntary annexation within 90 days. Ordinance 2026-20: Sidewalk Ordinance Amendment (Section 6.11) - The amendment requires sidewalks in all commercially zoned developments and any development fronting a collector road, with wider sidewalks (6 feet) on trails and buffers. P&Z recommended unanimously. Approved. Street Closure Request – Austin Street on May 6, 2026 - A request to close Austin Street from Washington to Lincoln (6 a.m. to 10 p.m.) for a Restaurant Week block party (5-8 p.m.). Staff supported with a compliant traffic control plan. Approved. FISD Bond Proposition Update - FISD Board President Matt Seidenberger and Interim Superintendent Ann Dixon presented a $160 million bond proposal for a new high school and improvements to other campuses. They highlighted 133 exterior doors at the current high school, safety concerns, and that the tax rate has not increased in 17 years. The bond is on the ballot. Council took no action. Key Outcomes - Z-2601: Ordinance 2026-14 approved (vote: all ayes, no nays). - Z-2604: Ordinance 2026-15 approved (vote: all ayes). - Z-2605: Motion to approve CUP failed 3-2 (needed 4 votes); CUP denied. - Z-2606: Ordinance 2026-17 approved (vote: 5-0, 1 abstention). - Z-2607: Ordinance 2026-18 approved (vote: 5-0, 1 abstention). - Ordinance 2026-19 (Chapter 26): Approved (vote: all ayes). - P-2425: Tabled to May 5, 2026, pending developer's annexation application. - Ordinance 2026-20 (Sidewalks): Approved (vote: all ayes). - Street Closure (May 6): Approved (vote: all ayes). - Executive Session: Held to discuss LCRA agreement and legal matters; no action reported upon return. - Chamber Update: Postponed to the next regular meeting.

The Fredericksburg City Council held a regular meeting on March 17, 2026, at 9:00 AM at New City Hall at East Campus. The meeting included ceremonial recognitions, approval of consent agenda items, a public hearing on a zoning change request that was denied, adoption of a fee schedule amendment, discussion on a proposed leaf and brush collection fee that was tabled, and action on a short-term rental permit appeal that was denied. Other routine approvals included a contract renewal and acceptance of a board resignation. Consent Calendar - Approval of March 3, 2026, Regular Meeting Minutes: Approved unanimously by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Zoning Change Request (Z-2603): Mike Mahoney, a resident, opposed the R1 to CBD rezoning, calling it "patently ridiculous" and urged denial. Ron Woolhoff asked the council to deny the request, stating there must be a stop to encroachment on residential homes. He expressed concern that a change could lead to bars or late-night businesses. - Leaf and Brush Collection Fee (Ordinance 2025-54): Multiple residents spoke against the proposed fee. - Randy Briley urged rejection, calling the fee a potential slippery slope. - Angela Brindley, a Stone Ridge resident, called the fee "unjust" and noted she never uses the service, bagging her own leaves and taking them to the dump. - Mike Mahoney argued the fee would be a tax increase, cause unintended consequences (e.g., people quitting trash service), and ultimately not reduce landfill costs. - Stefan (last name unclear), a resident who previously lived in Dallas and Chicago, expressed concern about fee inflation and lack of transparency. - A resident (likely the previous speaker, name unclear) pointed out that the service is not free—it is funded through the sanitation fund and utility bills. He noted the sanitation department had $620,000 in reserves beyond the emergency three-month reserve, and questioned the $731,000 projected cost for the fee versus a $380,000 deficit. He suggested postponing the decision until after the election. - Charlie Keeney, a former council member, expressed concern about the impact on residents living paycheck-to-paycheck. - Sexually Oriented Businesses and Related Text Amendments (Z-2601): George Studer urged serious consideration of the amendments, stating they are important to the city's family-friendly character. Discussion Items - Ordinance 2026-11 – Atmos Mid Tex Rate Review Mechanism Tariff: Kris Kneese, Director of Public Works/Utilities, presented the ordinance. By joining the Atmos Steering Committee, Fredericksburg avoids interim rate adjustments and instead receives a decrease. The proposed increase would have been 43%; the actual decrease is $1.28 per month. The council approved the ordinance unanimously. - Request Z-2603 – Zoning Change from R1 to CBD for 408, 412 & 414 East Austin Street: The Planning & Zoning Commission had recommended denial (9-0). Applicant Brad Ayler requested C1 (Neighborhood Commercial) instead of CBD, stating the area has transitioned to tourism uses. He cited short-term rentals, hotels, and traffic as reasons. Director Cliff Cross explained the council could consider C1 as an alternative but it would still require a supermajority due to the protest. Public comments opposed the change. After discussion, the council voted to deny the request from R1 to CBD (motion passed). It was noted that the applicant could reapply for C1 because of vesting. - Ordinance 2026-13 – Amendment to Construction Permit and Application Fee Schedule: Cliff Cross presented a comprehensive fee adjustment for building permits, sign permits, electrical/mechanical/plumbing permits, and new engineering and public works development review fees. The fees were adjusted to be more consistent with neighboring communities. A new $2,500 development agreement fee plus $200 per acre and attorney fees was added. On a commercial example, the total fee would rise from about $5,894 to approximately $8,000, still below a consulting firm's $8,200 quote. The council approved the ordinance unanimously. - Ordinance 2025-54 – New Fees for Leaf and Brush Collection Services: Kris Kneese presented the item, which had been tabled from December. After public comments, council members debated the merits. Mayor Hoover and Councilmember Kirchner expressed support for exploring cost recovery but noted the need for comprehensive data and integration with the budget process. Councilmember Klein made a motion to deny, which lacked a second. Councilmember Kirchner then moved to table the item until the first budget discussion session (expected in June). The motion to table passed with one nay (Councilmember Watson). - Items Z-2601 and Z-2604 (Text Amendments): These items were tabled at the Planning & Zoning Commission and will be re-noticed. No action was taken by the council. - Appeal of STR-Unoccupied Permit Denial for 804 Henrietta Street (Acre Project LLC / Dane Leach): The applicant explained that ownership had been transferred into a trust without following proper transfer procedures, and he sought an appeal. During questioning, it was revealed the property was currently listed for sale. The council voted to deny the appeal (motion passed). - Contract Renewal for JM Pipeline LLC: Kris Kneese presented the renewal for the fifth year at $500,000, a budgeted item. The contractor has replaced approximately 5,500 feet of 2-inch water mains and 2,500 feet of 4-inch mains over the past four years, improving fire protection. The council approved the renewal unanimously. - Accept Historic Review Board Member Resignation from Cyd Donnell: The council accepted the resignation unanimously. - Future Agenda Items: City Manager Bailey reviewed upcoming items for April, May, and June meetings, including a development plat, sidewalk ordinance update, FISD bond proposition update, quarterly reports, joint meeting with HRB, Native Plant Society beautification, audit presentation, election canvassing, orderly report, and strategic planning during budget kick-off. Key Outcomes - Approved: Ordinance 2026-11 (Atmos tariff) unanimously. - Denied: Request Z-2603 (R1 to CBD rezoning) unanimously (super-majority required due to P&Z denial). - Approved: Ordinance 2026-13 (fee schedule) unanimously. - Tabled: Ordinance 2025-54 (leaf and brush fees) until the first budget discussion session (motion passed 4-1). - Denied: Appeal of STR-U unoccupied permit denial for 804 Henrietta Street (unanimous). - Approved: Contract renewal with JM Pipeline LLC for $500,000 (unanimous). - Approved: Acceptance of HRB member resignation (unanimous).

The Fredericksburg City Council held its first regular meeting in the new City Council chambers at New City Hall at East Campus, 2818 E. U.S. Hwy. 290, beginning at 9:00 AM. Mayor Jeryl Hoover presided. The agenda included a presentation on the new chambers, ceremonial recognitions, consent approval, adoption of updated ICC building and fire codes, reconsideration of 2026 Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) funding, approval of the Warehouse Row Makers Market street closure, an Economic Development Commission quarterly update, and an executive session. Ceremonial Matters & Presentations - Garret Bonn, Assistant City Manager, presented the new council chambers project, explaining that the former Hill Country University science lab was converted into a 70-person chamber (expandable to 85) with overflow viewing. He credited SKT Architects, Keener Engineering Services, Integrity Contractors, and city staff. Substantial completion is targeted for March 26, 2026, with City Hall operations moving to the facility in mid-April. The project also includes a rainwater harvesting system and a Purple Martin nesting structure approved January 20. - Mayor Hoover presented a proclamation honoring the American Red Cross, Hill Country Chapter. A Red Cross representative accepted, mentioning their smoke alarm installation program and the city/county partnership. - City Manager Clinton Bailey recognized City Secretary Leticia Vacek for recertification as a Texas Registered Municipal Clerk, her 35-year International Institute of Municipal Clerks membership, service as Region Four Director, and Master Municipal Clerk designation. - Fire/EMS Chief Lynn Bizzell, volunteer fire department president Glenn Priest, and Amy Burrier honored Frank Stead upon his retirement with a helmet presentation, recognizing his 23 years of service and mentorship. Stead thanked the department and council. Council Comments - Mayor Hoover reported that the high school Building Trades program won a Best in American Living Award and that interviews for a new CBB CEO were ongoing. He also reminded everyone that March 3 was election day. - Councilmembers thanked first responders for responses to a fire and a suspicious package, shared positive feedback heard while in Washington, D.C., and reminded residents of the city/school election in 60 days and the 30-day voter registration deadline. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the February 17, 2026 regular City Council meeting by unanimous consent. Public Comments & Testimony - Anna Hudson, with Landmark Planning and Development Advisors, spoke during the economic development update. She said Fredericksburg tends to benefit when international travel feels unsafe and encouraged the city to use zoning and incentives for in-fill/redevelopment rather than sprawl. She asked the city to address rumors that it was incentivizing HEB to relocate from downtown, noting such a move would conflict with the comprehensive plan. She also suggested a tourist district/TIF to unify business groups and proposed naming the chambers after former Mayor Linda Longerhans. Discussion Items - 2026 HOT Funding Reconsideration: Mayor Hoover said he, not the applicants, requested reconsideration of two 2026 HOT applications because the National Museum of the Pacific War (listed on the agenda as the National Memorial of the Pacific War) and Oktoberfest are unique in generating HOT receipts and, based on CBB place data, qualify for more than they applied for. Previously approved HOT allocations totaled $458,000 across 25 applicants, leaving about $23,000 unallocated. The Council unanimously approved adding $10,000 to the Admiral Nimitz Foundation for the National Museum of the Pacific War and $5,000 to Oktoberfest, for a $15,000 increase. - Warehouse Row Makers Market Street Closure: Jill Elliott, from Black Chalk Home and representing Lincoln Street merchants, requested approval of a street closure on S. Lincoln Street from the north side of the Barons Creek bridge to E. Creek Street, 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 9, 2026, with a possible second fall event. The event would be a biannual, family-friendly maker/artisan market with 75–100 vendors, a $100 vendor fee, and proceeds intended to benefit nonprofits or Lincoln Street improvements. She asked for the closure to be expanded north of Creek Street. Staff supported the first event and recommended approving only the May 9 date, with a revised plan for the expanded closure. The Council approved the street closure request unanimously; a fall 2026 event will be considered separately later. City Manager’s Report – EDC Quarterly Update - Tim Lehmberg, EDC Director, presented year-end 2025 and current data. His annual work-plan priorities include maintaining business mix on Main Street, labor force growth, development regulation, and airport development; affordable housing was dropped as a separate priority. - Airport fuel sales set a record in 2025, exceeding 51,000 gallons, up about 9% from 2024; jet fuel sales were up about 10%. - Sales tax results: city sales tax was down 0.4% for the 2025 reporting year, while the county was up 0.58%; 9 of 12 months were down for the city and 5 of 12 were down for the county. Five months into fiscal 2026, the city was down 2.57% and the county about 0.4%. In the February report (December actual sales), the city was down 5.16% and the county 3.16%; in the January report (November sales), the city was up 0.7% and the county down 0.3%. A December 2025 11.05% spike was attributed to a Comptroller audit adjustment/true-up. - Development metrics: residential building permits down 12%, commercial permits down 46%, total permits down 20%; county septic permits down 20%; well permits down 29%; CTEC new meter installations down 27%; DRC pre-application conferences declined to 77 in 2025 from 90 in 2024. - Real estate was stronger: transactions up about 6% and dollar volume up about 7%. Average land prices fell about $5,400 per acre, dipping below $20,000 per acre for the first time in four years. Average city home sale price rose from about $587,000 to about $592,000 in 2025, below the 2022 peak; Lennar homes were not in MLS data, while DR Horton was. - Apartment occupancy recovered to about 94% after 611 units were added in 2024; two apartment projects, 305 and 240 units, are likely to break ground within five or six months. - Gross lodging revenues in 2025 were approximately $123.506 million, down about 4%; visitor center attendance fell 16%, partly due to the 2024 eclipse. Hotel/motel revenue share rose from 24% to 30% while short-term rental share fell from 76% to 70%; about 179 STR units were added last year, all in the county. - Lehmberg said he is not overly concerned, describing the figures as a settling to a new norm after post-COVID distortions and citing economic uncertainty and slightly lower visitation. CBB place data estimated city visitation fell by 300,000 people from 2022 to 2025 and county visitation by 400,000; each fell 100,000 in the last year, and Main Street geofenced visitation fell by 100,000. - In response to the mayor’s question, business owners Carol and Jill Elliott said last year was difficult but early 2026 had been much stronger. Jill Elliott said wine-tasting visitors who leave Main Street reduce evening shopping, but staying open later has been profitable and more shops should do so; she also requested signage and parking help to draw visitors to Lincoln Street. Items for Future Agenda - City Manager Bailey reviewed upcoming meetings: March 17, 2026 will include a storm-ready designation, SOB/tattoo/gaming parlor/multifamily ordinances, development services fee adjustments, an Atmos interim rate adjustment, a JM Pipeline contract renewal, and the tabled brush and leaf collection ordinance. April 7, 2026 will include a FISD presentation on the May 2, 2026 bond election for a new high school, a Native Plant Society Main Street native-plant project, and an executive session on water rights. A special joint meeting with the Historic Review Board and a strategic planning session are planned for April 21. - A council member questioned holding a strategic planning session before possible new council members were seated; City Manager Bailey explained the strategic plan would be updated annually with each new council’s input. Executive Session - The Council recessed to executive session under Texas Government Code Sections 551.071 and 551.074 for a legal matters update and discussion of the position of City Attorney. No action was reported in open session before adjournment. Key Outcomes - Approved consent minutes unanimously. - Approved Ordinance 2026-10 unanimously, adopting the 2021 ICC Codes. - Approved an additional $10,000 in HOT funding for the National Museum of the Pacific War and $5,000 for Oktoberfest unanimously. - Approved the May 9, 2026 Warehouse Row Makers Market street closure unanimously; staff will revise the expanded closure plan, and the fall event will need future approval. - Received the EDC quarterly update; no formal action taken. - Held executive session; no open-session action announced.

The Fredericksburg City Council met in regular session on February 17, 2026, at 9:00 AM, called to order by Mayor Jeryl Hoover. The meeting began with an invocation by City Resident Janice Smith, pledges of allegiance, and ceremonial recognitions for retiring historian Evelyn Weinheimer and emergency partners the Hill Country Red Cross and United Methodist Church. The council acted on multiple significant items, including zoning requests, an agreement with the Texas Historical Commission (THC), the approval of a Glockenspiel project, and a contract for a new Unified Development Code (UDC). Consent Calendar - The council unanimously approved the minutes from the regular meeting of February 3, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Marlene Pilot (President, Windcrest Patio Homes Association): Expressed cautious support for the conditional use permit for the Nuvista townhomes, stating that while trust remains an issue, the current plan is the best negotiated and they rely on the city for construction oversight. - Jim Wilhide (Windcrest resident): Raised concerns that sidewalk requirements for the Nuvista development were not explicitly included in the written conditions, despite oral commitments during the Planning & Zoning meeting. - Mr. Dooley: Thanked the applicant for compromising on the townhome project and explained the unique voting dynamics of the Planning & Zoning Commission on the matter. - Eric Hamerson: Argued against the Glockenspiel agreement, stating his position that the project does not meet the statutory criteria for the use of Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) funds, as it does not constitute a historic restoration, a structured advertisement, or a directly traceable driver for overnight stays. Discussion Items Zoning Change Request Z-2522 (707 N. Milam Street) Cliff Cross (Director of Development Services) presented a request by Judy K. Feller to rezone a 4.49-acre property from Single-Family Residential (R1) to Commercial (C2). Staff noted the Planning & Zoning Commission recommendation for denial due to spot zoning concerns but offered support for a change to Neighborhood Commercial (C1) as a compromise. The council voted to deny the C2 request and instead approved an ordinance changing the zoning to C1. Conditional Use Permit Request Z-2523 (1032 S. Milam Street / Nuvista Development) - Applicant Presentation: P.V. McMinn presented a revised CUP for 19 luxury townhomes on a 4.87-acre tract, featuring a 495-foot cul-de-sac shortened to comply with code. - Staff Report: Cliff Cross recommended approval subject to five conditions (20-foot buffer, retaining wall easement, 7am-7pm construction hours, city input on tree preservation, 90-day plat timeline). A sixth condition requiring sidewalk installation was added via the council motion. - Council Action: The council approved the CUP by a supermajority vote (5-0). Text Amendment Z-2602 (Reapplication Timeline) The council approved amendments to Zoning Code Sections 5.270 and 5.470, establishing a one-year waiting period for resubmitting denied rezoning or CUP applications, and a six-month period for withdrawn applications. Staff stated this aligns the city with standard practices in other municipalities. Texas Historical Commission (THC) Operating Agreement (Item 8A) Chris Elliott (THC Chief of Historic Sites) presented plans for an interactive frontier history center on the former Texas Rangers Heritage Center site. The council approved the operating agreement conveying the property to the state. Councilmembers expressed concerns about the 10-year operational deadline and the city's cost liabilities (utilities, title insurance) before the transfer. The motion carried with a directive to clarify that the city's financial responsibilities for the property would end at the date of transfer, not at the start of full operations. Glockenspiel Project Agreements (Items 8B & 7D) - Agreement with PCAA (Item 8B): Mike Zenner (PCAA) presented the final contract for the 45-foot tower featuring 38 bells, with a total construction budget of $1.442 million. Privately raised funds total $1.26 million. The council approved the agreement authorizing the project. - Budget Amendment (Item 7D): Tim Crenwelge (MSRC Chair) requested $125,000 from the Food & Wine Fund and $50,000 from the John Klein Meeting Room Fund, totaling $175,000, to fulfill the Market Square Redevelopment Commission's (MSRC) commitment of $400,000 to the project. The budget amendment was approved. Unified Development Code Consultant (Item 8D) The council approved the selection of Kimley Horn as the lead consultant for the initial phase of the Unified Development Code (UDC) update and authorized City Manager Clinton Bailey to negotiate a professional services contract up to $175,000. Staff reported that Kimley Horn received the highest evaluation score (91.4) among 13 respondents. Joint Election Services (Item 8C) The council approved a contract with the Gillespie County Elections Administrator for joint election services for the City of Fredericksburg’s General Election on May 2, 2026. Key Outcomes - Z-2522: Approved change from R1 to C1 zoning at 707 N. Milam Street. - Z-2523: Approved Conditional Use Permit for 19 townhomes at 1032 S. Milam Street with six conditions. - Z-2602: Approved text amendment establishing a reapplication timeline. - THC Agreement: Approved operating agreement for the former Texas Rangers site with conditions clarifying city cost exposure. - Glockenspiel: Approved construction agreement with PCAA and a $175,000 budget amendment from MSRC funds. - UDC Consultant: Selected Kimley Horn and authorized a $175,000 contract. - Elections: Approved joint election services contract for May 2, 2026.

The Fredericksburg City Council met in regular session at 9:00 a.m. at New City Hall at East Campus, 2818 E. U.S. Hwy. 290. Mayor Jeryl Hoover presided, with Councilmembers Tony Klein, Emily Kirchner, Todd Eidson, and Bobby Watson. The council approved the consent agenda, called the May 2 general election, approved 2026 Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) allocations, received a Winter Storm Fern response update, reviewed future agenda items, and entered executive session. Consent Calendar - The council approved the minutes of the January 13 special meeting and January 20 regular meeting by voice vote, with no opposition. Council Comments & Announcements - Mayor Hoover apologized to HOT applicants for the previous postponement and thanked EMC, Emergency Management Coordinator Ashley Morris, the police and fire chiefs, first responders, and Public Works staff for Winter Storm Fern response. - He reported 12 applicants for the new CEO position and said the Market Platz redevelopment group planned to meet in February or March. - A councilmember noted attending the Fire and EMS installation ceremony; the airport egg drop is scheduled for March 28 at 1:00 p.m. with 15,000 eggs dropped from a helicopter. Ordinance 2026-05 – General Election Call - City Secretary Leticia Vacek presented the ordinance calling the May 2, 2026 general election for mayor and two council seats. - City staff coordinated with Fredericksburg ISD and Gillespie County to use one voting location for early voting and election day at the elections office. - Filing deadline for candidates is February 13, 2026; voter registration deadline is April 2, 2026. - The council approved the ordinance by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Rory Cartier, CEO of the Admiral Nimitz Foundation, expressed concern that HOT allocations appeared arbitrary. He cited 140,728 visitors traveling more than 50 miles in the previous year and said a $160,000 request would cost 88 cents per visitor, compared with about $4.76 per visitor for some other recipients. He asked for clearer criteria in future. - Mayor Hoover acknowledged the process was partly arbitrary and pledged to work on improving it. The council used the discussion to raise the Nimitz allocation placeholder from $125,000 to $150,000. 2026 Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) Allocation Discussion - Finance Director Krista Wareham and the council reviewed applications with legal flags, past awards, county awards, and visitor data. - The council noted the city was short about $170,000 (approximately 26%) compared with requests. - Councilmembers stated a preference for limiting future HOT funding to nonprofit organizations and adding that restriction to policy, while keeping the current policy open for the 2026 application cycle. - Applications flagged by legal or data review included St. Mary's (need for stronger heads-in-beds evidence), Lone Star Heritage Foundation (signage ineligible by statute), and two late applications, which were ruled ineligible. Final allocations approved by the council totaled $458,000, leaving roughly $23,000 under budget: - National Museum of the Pacific War: $150,000 - Church of the Colored People of Gillespie County: $45,000 - Chamber of Commerce Light and I Parade: $18,000 - Fredericksburg Community Orchestra / Fredericksburg Music Fest 2026: $4,000 - Fredericksburg Education Initiative / DVA Systems Go Rockets: $5,000 - Fredericksburg Farmers Market: $5,000 - Junior Chamber of Commerce Crawfish Festival: $15,000 - Rotary Club Foundation Craft Beer Festival: $10,000 - Friends of the Written Word Fredericksburg Book Festival (new event): $5,000 - Frontier History Company Living History Presentation: $5,000 - German Choirs of Fredericksburg: $2,500 - Historical Society Homes Tour / Pioneer Museum Market Plan: $10,000 - Jack and Adams Bicycles DOS Gravel Event: $10,000 - Meals for Vets Hill Country Vet Fest: $3,000 - OctoberFest: $15,000 - Rotary Club of Fredericksburg Morning Carfest: $2,000 - Rotary Club of Fredericksburg Morning Crowd Run: $2,000 - Stonewall Peach Jamboree and Rodeo: $10,000 - Texas Cellos: $10,000 - Classic: $5,000 - Farines Gield: $5,000 City Manager's Report – Winter Storm Fern Update - City Manager Clinton Bailey praised the multi-agency response and new Emergency Management Coordinator Ashley Morris, who had been in her role about two and a half months. - Fire Chief Lynn described 12-hour operational periods and a major fire fought during icy conditions; he credited public cooperation and countywide communication. - Ashley Morris reported one shelter at United Methodist Church in partnership with Red Cross, housing four travelers after an I-10 fatal pileup; most residents stayed home, limiting impacts. - Public Works/Electric staff explained that the Nimitz substation outage affected approximately 1,500 city connections and at least 1,500 CTEC connections. Power was restored by rolling loads, with all customers back on the Nimitz substation by about 6:30–7:00 p.m.; intermittent flickers were caused by crews breaking ice from equipment. - The new radio system performed well, though some dead spots remain in the county. Items for Future Agenda - City Manager Bailey reviewed upcoming items: the February 17 meeting will include an ordinance on resubmittals, an amendment to the sexually oriented business ordinance, a unified development code contract, a Glockenspiel project agreement, a Market Square Redevelopment Commission request for unallocated Food and Wine Festival funds, a Texas Historical Commission amendment related to Fort Martin Scott, an election services contract, a conditional use permit for townhomes at 1032 South Milam, and a Lincoln Street road closure. - March items include location ordinances for sexually oriented businesses, vape, and tattoo shops. - The third Citizen University class kicked off that evening; Coffee with the City Manager is scheduled for the following Wednesday. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved. - Ordinance 2026-05 approved by voice vote. - The HOT allocations totaling $458,000 were approved by voice vote, with about $23,000 left under budget; the two late applications were ruled ineligible, and council members indicated they want to consider a nonprofit-only HOT policy for future years. - The Winter Storm Fern update was received. - The council entered executive session under Texas Government Code Sections 551.072 (water supply purchase/lease) and 551.071 (legal matters); after returning, the council adjourned with no further action reported.

The Fredericksburg City Council met in regular session at 9:00 AM on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at New City Hall at East Campus, 2818 E. U.S. Hwy. 290, Fredericksburg, Texas. Mayor Jeryl Hoover presided with a full quorum. The agenda covered consent items, ordinance and resolution adoptions, 2026 Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) funding, a Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) funding agreement, annual department reports, future agenda items, and executive session. Unless noted, votes were voice votes with no audible opposition. Consent Calendar - Approved in one motion the January 6, 2026 regular meeting minutes. - Approved three 2026 parade requests: Fourth of July Parade (July 4, 10:00 a.m., Main Street), Gillespie County Fair Parade (August 28, 10:00 a.m., Main Street), and Light the Night Christmas Parade (December 4, 6:30 p.m., with December 11 as the inclement weather date). - Approved street closures for: City Hall Open House & Touch-A-Truck (W. Austin Street, March 26, 7:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.); Jaycees Crawfish Festival (N. Adams and W. Austin streets, May 22–24); Wildflower 5K/10K (W. Austin Street, April 25, 6:00–11:00 a.m.); and Fredericksburg Volunteer Fire Department Fish Fry (W. Austin Street, April 18, 7:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.). - Mayor Hoover thanked the owners of San Saba Soak for their continued cooperation with the repeated closures. Public Comments & Testimony - George Studer, a Fredericksburg resident, expressed support for Resolution 2026-02 opposing the Marshall Springs Solar Farm and Battery Energy Storage System, and urged the city to commission a formal risk assessment documenting emergency-services and community impacts. He noted the last major risk assessment followed the freeze a couple of years ago. - Randy Briley, who identified himself as the prior council liaison, clarified during the HOT discussion that Placer cell-phone geofence data was provided last year through a specific request and was not an automatic part of applications; he favored using such data to give council objective guardrails for HOT allocations. During the CVB discussion, he supported a three-year fixed annual CVB budget on a five-sevenths formula and said his earlier proposed $1 million reduction was strategic rather than arbitrary. Ordinances, Resolutions and Public Hearings - Ordinance 2026-01: Repealed the 1990 Horse Drawn Carriage ordinance (Ordinance 5-018). City Secretary Leticia Vacek said Main Street is owned by TxDOT and the lengthy approval process caused past operators to abandon the idea; no comments in opposition were received. Motion carried. - Ordinance 2026-02: Amended the Peddlers, Solicitors, and Canvassers regulations. Police Chief Brian Vorauer said changes add photo IDs, expand the disqualifying conviction list (10 years for felonies, 7 years for specified misdemeanors), and clarify permit denials. Councilmember Emily Kirchner raised concerns about a previous badge that looked like a City employee badge; staff had already revised the format to clearly say 'solicitor/canvasser.' Religious organizations remain exempt. Motion carried. - Ordinance 2026-03/2026-04: The agenda included Ordinance 2026-03 to establish Community Room fees at City Hall and Ordinance 2026-04 to amend the Animal Control Ordinance and fee schedule. The available transcript does not clearly capture a separate discussion or vote on 2026-03; the recorded discussion covers animal control. Ordinance 2026-04 was approved, increasing dog and cat adoption fees by about $10–$15, discussing microchip pricing, and removing the horse-and-carriage exception in the livestock section because of the earlier repeal. Motion carried. - Resolution 2026-01: Approved the purchase of Tasers through the Office of the Governor Criminal Justice Grant Program. The package—15 Axon Taser 10 devices, a virtual-reality training headset, batteries, and cartridges—costs $79,994, with the grant covering 100% and no city match. The current X26P Tasers are obsolete, and the department has 32 in inventory. Motion carried. - Resolution 2026-02: Approved formal opposition to the proposed Marshall Springs Solar Farm and Battery Energy Storage System in Gillespie County. City Attorney Mick McKamie said the city is already involved in litigation over county drainage and floodplain compliance; the resolution directs staff and counsel to communicate the city's opposition and encourage relocation. Motion carried. Purple Martin Conservation Project - Emerson Kirchner of Gillespie County 4-H presented a proposal to install an 18-gourd Purple Martin nesting rack at the new City Hall campus. The project, funded partly through a Bexar Audubon Society grant, would be monitored weekly by 4-H members, and data would be submitted to the Purple Martin Conservation Association's scout-rival study. Councilmembers praised the presentation. Council approved site location 1 near the vineyard and directed staff to move forward. 2026 Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) Funding - Finance Director Krista Wareham reported 29 applications for 2026 HOT funding. The distribution budget is $700,000, of which $219,000 has already been awarded to the Food & Wine Festival. Awarding all requested amounts would exceed the budget by about $171,000. - Staff noted one for-profit application (Jack Adams bicycle event) was ineligible under the adopted policy and two applications were late (Fredericksburg Art Guild and the Heritage School event). Legal review flagged incomplete or insufficient documentation for several applicants, including attendance/overnight stay issues for the book festival, historical society, Lone Star Heritage Foundation, Meals for Vets, Rotary Club Car Fest, Rotary Club Crawd Run, and the Catholic school application. - Placer data became a central issue: providers and some applicants noted the data was unavailable while the CVB account manager was out, and Randy Briley explained it had been a one-time request. Some councilmembers were open to making exceptions for late applicants, while others wanted objective data before decisions. - Council voted to table all 2026 HOT funding allocations until the February 3, 2026 meeting so staff could obtain Placer data, complete legal review of the application/agreement, and resolve the policy questions. Staff apologized to applicants for the delay. CVB Long-Term Funding Agreement - Dr. David Shields, CVB Board President, requested a multi-year funding agreement with the City and permission to draw down CVB reserves over six months to a strategic reserve. He argued a guaranteed funding mechanism, using the historical five-sevenths HOT formula, signals stability and is important to recruiting a strong CVB CEO. CVB representatives said the current budget is about $4.3 million and that a percentage formula protects both parties if HOT revenue drops. - Councilmembers debated whether to wait for a new CEO before committing. Bobby Watson initially favored waiting, while also noting the City has never failed to fund the CVB. Mayor Hoover challenged the 'begging for funds' characterization and said he did not accept the stress argument. Emily Kirchner questioned whether all five-sevenths funding was the best use and sought assurances about programmatic arts/culture spending. City Attorney McKamie said the agreement can use a dollar amount or percentage and is always subject to amendment. - Motion to approve the CVB HOT funding agreement as presented by legal, including five-sevenths funding, carried on a voice vote. Department Annual Reports and City Manager's Report - Police Department: Chief Vorauer reported 27,000-plus incidents and 12,493 public calls for service in 2025, with average response time of 4 minutes 56 seconds and an average of 58 minutes 18 seconds per incident. Calls were up 10% over 2024 and 20% over 2023; traffic accidents rose 7%; arrests rose 25%. Of arrests, 36% occurred between midnight and 6 a.m., 53% were DWI/public intoxication, 54% were visitors, 64% of DWI arrests were visitors, and 62% of public intoxication arrests were visitors. The department logged 722 accidents, about 12,000 traffic stops, and 1,100-plus animal intakes. Citizen satisfaction was 93.8%, with 89% giving 5-star ratings. The chief said continued growth means the department will need additional staffing. - Fire/EMS: Chief Bizzell reported a 10.2% increase (about 479 additional calls) in fiscal year 2025. EMS calls are 78.4% of all responses. Mutual aid rose 15.5%, with urban (+216) and remote (+223) districts posting the largest call increases. Daytime calls rose 13.7%; nighttime calls rose 4.5%. He warned of drought conditions, pointing to two weekend brush fires (about 30 and 40 acres), humidity as low as 15%, and three consecutive red flag days. He said the system can still handle current demand, but continued growth will stress personnel and equipment. - Municipal Court: Judge Amy Becker reported cases filed rose 41% to 1,804, with 194 inactive cases reactivations likely; active cases rose 23%. City ordinance citations rose 73%, and parking citations are a growing issue. The juvenile diversion program served more than 40 juveniles; Team Court won the Impact on Justice award. Judge Becker said five DUI-minor cases were especially concerning. - City Secretary Leticia Vacek reported on election administration (1,174 voters in the previous election cycle), 34 agenda packets, 9 proclamations, 40 board/commission applications, 208 public information requests through the online system, 135 boxes of records destroyed, and training for 42 staff members on the TxDOT Title VI plan. Future Agenda and Executive Session - City Manager Bailey previewed February 3, 2026: an ordinance calling the May 2 general election, an executive session on water rights negotiations, and the postponed HOT funding awards. February 17, 2026 will include ordinances on the location of SOVs, vape and tattoo shops, a resubmittal time frame, an SOP ordinance amendment, a UDC contract, and the Glock and Spiel project on Marktplatz. - The strategic plan is projected to be completed by the end of April 2026. A new Citizen University class starts with 14 participants, and Coffee with the City Manager is scheduled for February 11. - The council recessed into executive session for legal, real estate (US 290E/Heritage Hills Drive), and personnel evaluations. After reconvening, the mayor noted 'one motion to carry forward'; no other action was reported. Key Outcomes - Approved the consent calendar and all street/parade permits as listed. - Adopted Ordinance 2026-01, Ordinance 2026-02, and Ordinance 2026-04; the transcript does not clearly show a separate vote on Ordinance 2026-03. - Adopted Resolution 2026-01 (grant-funded Tasers) and Resolution 2026-02 (Marshall Springs opposition). - Approved site 1 for the 4-H Purple Martin nesting/gourd rack at the new City Hall campus. - Tabled all 2026 HOT funding allocations to February 3, 2026. - Approved the CVB long-term HOT funding agreement including five-sevenths funding. - Accepted department annual reports and noted the need for future staffing/resource planning.

The Fredericksburg City Council met in special session on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at 5:30 PM at New City Hall - East Campus to review applications and interview applicants requesting Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) funding for 2026. Mayor Jeryl Hoover presided. The council heard 29 applications representing approximately $651,000 in requests, took no final funding action, and scheduled the allocation decision for the following Tuesday. Hotel Occupancy Tax Funding Applications and Applicant Testimony Applicants presented requests in the categories of arts, historic preservation, and marketing/promotion. Council members asked questions about attendance, room nights, prior funding, and eligibility. - Admiral Nimitz Foundation / National Museum of the Pacific War ($160,000, historic preservation): New president and CEO Rory Cartier had nothing to add to the application and answered no further questions. - Church of the Colored People of Gillespie County Inc. / African American Museum ($45,000, arts): Dr. Mark Phillips described ongoing work, including preparing to show images of the original founders ahead of Black History Month. - Fredericksburg Art Guild ($515, arts): No applicant appeared; the request covers advertising and marketing expenses. - Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce – Light the Night Christmas Parade and Afterglow ($18,000, marketing/promotion): The applicant reported more than 20,000 attendees. - Fredericksburg Community Orchestra ($10,000, arts): Teresa said the renamed Fredericksburg Summer Music Institute would bring 60 collegiate musicians and 20 professors for concerts in late June, with the final concert at St. Joseph's Hall. - Systems Go education initiative ($5,000, marketing/promotion): Program director George Burns said the funds are used primarily to attract people from outside of town to launches. - Farmers market arts and entertainment ($6,000, marketing/promotion): Tabitha explained the funding supports local bands during the farmers market, and this year's season would extend from March through mid-September. - Fredericksburg Junior Chamber of Commerce – Crawfish Fest ($25,000, marketing/promotion): Applicant Slum McGride reported 7,600 attendees; the festival ran out of crawfish on Sunday and then opened the gates for free. - Fredericksburg Music Club ($10,000, arts): Pamela noted the club was established in 1937, has no paid employees, and will feature a Van Cliburn gold medalist. Council clarified that the $10,000 request was less than the club's listed advertising and arts-promotion expenses. - Fredericksburg Music Festival and School / Texas Cellos ($50,000, marketing/promotion): Joseph reported 2,920 tickets sold at the first two-week festival and more than three million internet views. He estimated 4,000 of 6,000 future tickets would come from outside the area. Council encouraged him to use Convention and Visitors Bureau data rather than a ChatGPT estimate. Joseph expressed strong interest in building more arts events in Fredericksburg. - Fredericksburg Rotary Club – Craft Beer Festival ($10,000, marketing/promotion): Debbie and Dale had nothing to add; this will be the fifth annual festival in June. - Friends of the Written Word – Book Festival ($5,000, arts): Deb reported the second festival would occur that weekend, with 1,366 Facebook views and 1,000 website visits; about 700 people attended last year. - Frontier History Company Foundation – First Saturday Living History Day ($6,700, marketing/promotion): Russell had nothing to add; council noted travel expenses were listed and some attachments were missing from packets. - German Choirs of Fredericksburg ($2,500, arts/promotion): Jim said the men's choir has existed since 1908 and the request supports Maifest and fest concerts. - Gillespie County Fair ($75,000, sporting event): Jorge Rodriguez described jockey insurance, testing fees, and racing license fees; total racing costs are $260,000 and advertising is $50,000. He did not know the county contribution and agreed to provide it. Staff later noted the county's 2025 award information was not yet available. - Historic house restoration (approximately $80,000, historic preservation): Heather described exterior and interior restoration work, including structural work, roof repair, painting, wood damage repair, stonework, and HVAC on the 1800s house added to museum property in 1967. - Historic home tour and annual museum marketing ($20,000, historic preservation): Heather reported 1,200 home-tour tickets sold, with maximum capacity about 1,500; about 60% of tickets come from outside a 50-mile radius, 93% of museum admission is from out of town, and 60% of those guests say they spend money. - Heritage School ($10,000, event sponsorship): The applicant reported 9,700 skaters and 24,000 total attendees, down about 500 from last year due to warm weather. - Jack and Adams Bicycles – DOS Gravel ($12,500, sporting event): Josh described a new gravel bike race near Mason County, with 220 first-year registrants and 500 expected. The event is not a 501(c)(3), though organizers donate to local community and volunteer fire departments. Council noted HOT grants are normally given to nonprofits. - Lone Star Heritage Foundation ($7,400, historic preservation): Jim said funds would pay for two interpretive signs with QR codes along planned heritage trails; the foundation did not receive funds last year and is also working with a film crew from Gonzalez interested in producing heritage films. - Meals for Vets fundraiser ($5,000, advertising): Timothy described a one-day Market Platz music and family festival with four bands, food and beer, and 23 local vendors. He reported $80,000 raised from the organization's corner sales and $45,000 raised at the event. - Fredericksburg Oktoberfest ($20,000, marketing/promotion): Debbie had nothing to add; council had no questions. - Rotary Club of Fredericksburg Morning – Carfest ($2,500, marketing/promotion): A committee representative said the club took over the event in 2022 and had 197 pre-registered vehicles; the event is free and open to the public in June. - Stonewall Chamber of Commerce – Peach Jamboree and Rodeo ($30,000, sporting event): Brian and Billy had nothing to add but noted about 35 lodging rooms in the Fredericksburg area are used for directors and rodeo crew. - Kraut Run ($2,500, sporting event): Lori Hass said the run is the same Rotary Club's second event and its first city funding request. She estimated 350 room nights: at least 400 people drove more than 75 miles, and 75% were assumed to stay two nights. The run had 766 participants last year in its 16th year. - Saint Mary's Catholic School ($15,599, historic preservation/beautification): A representative described campus beautification and a spirit magazine. A survey showed 5% of the school's 4,200 turkey-dinner plates were sold to out-of-town visitors, including a couple from New York. - Texas High Country Higher Education Development Foundation / Forging Futures Education Fund ($10,000, marketing): Megan said the April event includes a dinner, live auction, golf tournament, and ceremony, drawing 150-225 for dinner. The 2,000-name invitation list was built over years, and the fundraiser is in its eighth year. - Quilt Show ($5,000, arts/marketing): Jean said the biennial show would be held on Labor Day weekend, drawing 400-600 people and roughly 60 room nights. Staff Discussion and Next Steps After the interviews, the finance director said staff would provide missing attachments, fill in city-use-only sections, and send the council a spreadsheet of prior HOT awards and county contributions. Staff noted one applicant has not filed a required report and would be contacted. Staff also discovered a previously adopted HOT grant policy that may not have been reviewed by legal; staff will work with the City Attorney to align the policy with organization agreements and bring changes back in early February before award contracts are signed. Key Outcomes - No final HOT funding vote was taken. Council is scheduled to decide allocations at the next meeting on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. - Council directed staff to deliver missing attachments, historical funding information, county funding data, and report-compliance details before the decision. - The Gillespie County Fair applicant agreed to provide county funding information to the City Secretary. - Staff will have the City Attorney review the HOT grant policy and will present contract updates in early February. - Council encouraged the Texas Cellos festival to work with the Convention and Visitors Bureau to obtain verified visitor and room-night data.

The Fredericksburg City Council met on January 6, 2026 at 9:00 AM at New City Hall. The meeting included an invocation, pledges, council comments, consent agenda approval, a quarterly update from the Convention & Visitor Bureau (CVB), a funding request for the 2026 Food & Wine Festival, acceptance of a Zoning Board of Adjustment resignation, annual department updates from Development Services, Public Works, Parks, Health, and Finance, and a future agenda review. The council also convened in executive session for personnel and real estate matters. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the December 9, 2025 Special Joint Meeting with CVB Board, December 9, 2025 Special City Council Meeting, and December 16, 2025 Regular City Council Meeting. (Motion passed unanimously) Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items 6A. Fredericksburg Convention & Visitor Bureau (CVB) Quarterly Update - David Shields (CVB Board President) read the CVB mission statement and provided an update on the CEO search: first major screening January 23, candidate review February 4, virtual interviews February 18-19, all-day interviews March 4, with potential hire in April. - Jesse Bard (CVB Board) highlighted that Gillespie County had $190 million in direct travel spending in 2024, and the CVB provided a $57 return in direct visitor spend for every $1 spent on marketing. He noted that a $1 million reduction in funding would equate to a $57 million loss to the local economy. - The CVB requested: (1) adoption of a three-year annual budget, and (2) return of $1 million to the operating budget to restore it to $5.3 million for the fiscal year. The council had previously withheld $1 million from the CVB budget, directing it toward historic preservation and arts funding. - Karen Mayo (VP Sales) explained that the $1 million was not new spending; it was a parking place for funding already designated. The CVB used reserve funds ($250,000 for county reserve and $250,000 for a fall campaign) to maintain operations. CVB reserves are approximately $4.5 million. - Councilmember Klein asked about county funding; CVB reported positive conversations with Judge Jones about increasing HOT tax enforcement collection. - Councilmember Watson questioned the CVB's ability to pull from reserves to reach $5 million. CVB stated that while possible, a three-year funding commitment would allow them to reduce reserves and attract a higher-caliber CEO. The board noted that some candidates declined due to the budget size. - Councilmember Kirchner asked about gaps in tourism and initiatives. Jesse Bard emphasized that spending per visitor is down nationally; the CVB's marketing focuses on heritage, arts, and culture (over 90% of ads touched heritage/arts). The CVB is the marketing agent for small businesses. - No vote was taken on the CVB's funding request; the update was informational. 6B. Consider approving a Request for Funding for the 2026 Food & Wine Festival - Jim Mikula (Chamber of Commerce) requested $219,000 total ($185,000 base plus $34,000 for a culinary week expansion, including a national PR campaign). The item had been tabled from December 16, 2025. - The additional $34,000 breakdown: $10,000 for CBS Austin (long-form videos and live interviews), $1,000 for an outside PR firm, digital advertising, influencers lodging, print ads, photography, and graphic design. An additional $21,000 would go toward a national PR firm (not yet selected) and travel for journalists. - Councilmember Klein expressed concerns about public benefit, volunteer use, and the lack of giveback to nonprofits or Market Square redevelopment. He noted that the chamber uses paid staff rather than volunteers and that the city previously ran the event with volunteers and funds directed to Market Square. - Mikula stated that 20-28% of attendees in 2025 had household incomes over $200,000, and the festival attracted a high-net-worth demographic. He also noted the five-year agreement allows for giveback in years 4 and 5, and they are considering funding a catering kitchen for Market Square. - Councilmember Watson asked about coordination with CVB; Mikula acknowledged overlap and expressed willingness to explore working with CVB's PR firm (Geiger). - Motion to approve $219,000 passed 3-1 (Councilmember Klein voted no). 6C. Accepting Zoning Board of Adjustment Resignation(s) and Appointing Replacements - The council accepted the resignation of Taylor Williams from the ZBA (motion passed unanimously). Replacement appointments were discussed in executive session. - After executive session, the council approved appointing Adam Lewis to fill Williams' term and appointing Jimmy Colt to the alternate position vacated by Lewis. (Motion passed unanimously) 7. City Manager’s Report – Annual Department Updates - Development Services (Cliff Cross): Reported 16 zoning cases processed (14 approved, 2 tabled), 7 Board of Adjustment cases, 15 Historic Review Board cases (14 approved initially, 1 denied then approved on revision), 83 plan reviews, 9 commercial permits ($288,840 revenue), 53 residential permits ($365,311 revenue), 587 inspections (25 failed initially, later resolved). Short-term rentals now at 1,008 active, generating $211,025 in Q3. Subdivisions: Sonoma Oaks nearing build-out, Friendship Oaks phases progressing, Trails at Windcrest infrastructure beginning. Future: unified development code RFQ received 13 responses; fee structure and ordinance amendments expected by February 2026. - Public Works (Chris Kneese): Electric: rehabbed underground primary in Sandcastle, continued overhead line removal on Main Street, completed infrastructure GIS survey, added 5 new commercial customers. Sanitation: completed cells 12/13 at landfill (including customer convenience center and grit trap), replaced all Main Street trash receptacles, applied for $4.8M ACOG grant. Solid waste deposited: 37,000 tons in 2025 (down 3,600 tons from 2024 due to rate increases). Recycling operates at a loss ($60-70k/year). Streets: paved 9.5 miles, accepted 1.1 miles of new roads, assisted with parking lot at Ladybird and Totch House. Water: completed Homing Lane lift station, 2-inch main replacement on East College Street, West Live Oak water/sewer extension, standby generators installed. Water pumpage trends down despite growth. Aquifer levels rebounded after 2025 rainfall. - Parks (Andrew Schmidt): Capital improvements: specialized equipment purchased, pool plaster repair (mostly warranty), annual Christmas lights lease at Market Square now seasonal (up Nov-Jan). Reservations at Market Square indoor facilities 500 (up), Totch House slightly down, Pioneer Pavilion up. Pool use: Park Pool and Town Pool near capacity. RV park occupancy at 39% (down from COVID peak). New recreation superintendent hired. - Health Department (Kelly Olfers): 317 fixed food establishments (up from 308 in 2024), 64 mobile food units (down from 70). 330 temporary health permits issued for special events. Routine inspections increased by 100 due to third inspector. Child care: 8 facilities inspected. School environmental health inspections: Fredericksburg ISD (5 campuses), Harper, and Doss Consolidated – although no longer required by TEA, department continues them. All staff now accredited sanitarians. New software improved inspection efficiency and public reporting. - Finance (Carla Wareham): 2025 revenues at 101% of budget (sales tax, interest, development fees strong); expenses at 90% (salary savings, timing of City Hall costs, delayed stormwater project). General fund reserves $9 million. Structural balance at risk by 2029 due to personnel costs (60% of recurring) growing faster than revenues. 2026 budget raised property taxes to voter approval rate and added $530,000 in revenue compression relief. Sales tax: 2025 finished at $9.6M; 2026 through December at $2.3M. HOT tax: on track for $6M budget. Electric and water revenues trending as expected. 8. Items for Future Agenda - City Manager Bailey reviewed upcoming items: January 20 meeting with Fire, EMS, PD, and Municipal Court updates; ordinance on community room use/fees; evaluations of city manager and judge; ordinance on horse-drawn carriages; July 4th and other event requests. February: sound ordinance, solicitor permits, animal control fees, SOB ordinance amendment. Special meeting January 13 for HOT funding applications. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda (minutes) approved unanimously. - Food & Wine Festival funding approved $219,000 (3-1 vote, Klein opposed). - ZBA resignation accepted; Adam Lewis appointed to fill term, Jimmy Colt appointed as alternate (both approved unanimously). - All department updates received and discussed; no formal votes taken on those presentations. - Council will meet again January 13 (special) and January 20 (regular).

The Fredericksburg City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at 9:00 AM at New City Hall at East Campus. The meeting included a consent agenda, several public hearings, discussion of fees, annexation and zoning requests, a report on the Fredericksburg Food & Wine Festival, and an informational report on Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). Council voted to deny a controversial annexation request, tabled a leaf and brush fee ordinance, and tabled a funding request for the Food & Wine Festival. Consent Calendar - Approved City Council minutes of December 2, 2025. - Approved the appointment of Vickie Bonewitz to the Gillespie County/City Health Board. Public Comments & Testimony - Leaf and Brush Collection Fees: Residents Mo and Eric spoke in opposition. Mo stated the proposed $10/month fee was excessive, suggested an opt-out for non-users, and noted that county residents use the city's recycling and drop-off centers for free. Eric also advocated for an opt-out. Both urged council to reconsider the fee. - Annexation/Zoning at 612 Hollmig Lane (Sonoma Oaks Phase 2): Numerous residents spoke against the annexation and development, citing unresolved drainage issues from Phase 1, increased runoff volume (estimated 1.1 million additional gallons on a 2-year rain event combining both phases), property damage, lack of developer communication, and the need for a comprehensive drainage study before further development. Speakers included George Studer (pedestrian safety concerns), Gina Enderland (thanked facilitator but opposed timing), Grant (alleged miscalculations and diversion of water), Kyle Segner (detailed volume impacts, urged holding off), Tom (asked for solutions before annexation), Uko (family property concerns, no developer outreach), Joe de Canesi (no solutions presented, property affected), and Michael Moffitt (erosion and contamination concerns). Many emphasized that while the developer meets current code, the volume of water and downstream impacts are not adequately addressed. Discussion Items - Ordinance 2025-53 – Health Department Fees: Director Kelli Olfers presented an update required by Senate Bill 1008, eliminating the institutional permit and replacing it with a $100 per inspection fee for nonprofits, schools, etc. Retail and temporary permits unchanged. Council passed unanimously. - Ordinance 2025-54 – Leaf and Brush Collection Fees: Staff proposed a $10/month per solid waste customer fee to cover costs, with a new bulk waste service. Council debated the amount, the lack of an opt-out, and that the budget already included $531,000 for the service. A motion to table the ordinance for up to 90 days to allow further study and public input passed unanimously. - Ordinance 2025-37 – Annexation of 612 Hollmig Lane (Mark Cornett): The applicant and staff presented. Public comment was heavily opposed. City Manager Clinton Bailey reported on facilitated meetings, noting no short-term solution was reached. He stated the developer meets city requirements but acknowledged increased runoff volume affects downstream properties. Council discussed the need for a countywide drainage study (estimated 3 years) and long-term solutions. A motion to deny the annexation, with a directive for city engineers to continue working with the county on a solution, passed unanimously. Subsequently, the related land use change (Ordinance 2025-38), zoning change (Ordinance 2025-39), and ROW annexation (Ordinance 2025-40) were also denied without separate votes, as they were contingent on the annexation. - Fredericksburg Food & Wine Festival – Annual Report and Funding Request: Jim Mikula of the Chamber of Commerce presented highlights: 3,900 attendees at the grand tasting, 95 vendors, 1.9 billion media impressions, and $121,000 net revenue before donations. He requested $250,000 in HOT funds for 2026 (up from $185,000), citing plans for a national PR firm, a restaurant week in May, and educational sessions. Council requested a detailed breakdown of the $65,000 increase. A motion to table the funding request to the January 6, 2026 meeting passed unanimously. - Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) – Impact on City Emergency Services: Fire Chief Lynn Bizzell presented an informational report. He explained that a BESS fire is a hazmat event; firefighters must let it burn out (potentially weeks), requiring full protective gear that may be non-reusable ($10,000 per suit). Mutual aid from all county departments would be needed, with backfilling of city stations leading to overtime costs. Evacuations could affect the city depending on wind. The failure rate is about 9%. Council took no action; the report was for awareness. Key Outcomes - Health Department Fees: Ordinance 2025-53 adopted unanimously. - Leaf and Brush Collection Fees: Ordinance 2025-54 tabled for up to 90 days (unanimous). - Annexation at 612 Hollmig Lane: Ordinance 2025-37 denied unanimously; related land use and zoning ordinances (2025-38, 2025-39) and ROW annexation (2025-40) also denied. City engineers directed to work with county on drainage solutions. - Food & Wine Festival Funding: Request for $250,000 tabled to January 6, 2026 meeting (unanimous). - BESS Report: Received as information; no action. - Future Agenda: Items noted for upcoming meetings, including HOT funding awards (Jan 20), citizen university, and move to new council chambers in February. - Executive Session: Council met in executive session on legal, real estate, and personnel matters; no action taken publicly, but city manager was instructed to pursue a city attorney in-house.