Public Meetings - Idaho Falls, Idaho

The Murphy City Council met in regular session at 6 p.m. on November 3, 2026, with Mayor Scott Bradley presiding. All council members were present, with Councilmember Janet Butler attending virtually. The meeting included an Arbor Day proclamation, a capital improvement project update, several consent agenda items, a sign code amendment, an executive session, and a post-executive-session action concerning the city manager. Consent Calendar - Council approved consent agenda items 7A, 7C, 7D, and 7F in one motion by unanimous vote. - Items 7B, 7E, and 7G were pulled from the consent agenda and considered separately. Public Comments & Testimony - No residents addressed the council during the public comment period for items not on the agenda. Proclamation: Arbor Day - Councilmember Ken Oltman presented the Arbor Day proclamation. Mayor Bradley proclaimed Friday, November 6, 2026, as Murphy Arbor Day. The city is a Tree City USA for 15 consecutive years and will give away 100 three-gallon trees at the Murphy Community Center on a first-come, first-served basis. Capital Improvement Project Update - FY 2026 sidewalk repairs are about 60% complete; construction is expected to finish by late November to early December 2026. The contractor is moving into the Rinter/Tall Tree area (section two) and recently increased productivity from about three to eight sidewalk replacements per day. A council member noted that even at eight per day, completion would take about two and a half years, and staff said they hope productivity improves further. - Rodeo elevated storage tank construction began the previous day, with a 180-calendar-day proposed completion around the end of April 2027. The tower must be back in service by the end of February 2027, allowing 120 days out of service. - The Timbers area cast iron water main replacement is scheduled to begin November 9, 2026, with a proposed completion date of May 7, 2027. - The FM 544 pedestrian bridge project is on hold and will be discussed further at the January council retreat. - The Table Rock box culvert extension had a bid opening October 8, 2026; LG Space Construction was the low bidder at $300,000. Construction was planned to begin late November to early December 2026 if approved. - Design-phase projects include the FM 544/McCreary right turn lane, McMillan Road pavement and drainage improvements, Skyline sanitary sewer rehabilitation, and Timbers area sanitary sewer and paving rehabilitation. - The East Rinter and Tall Tree intersection improvements were shown as completed. - Staff reviewed quarterly financials for listed projects. Individual Consideration: Property Donation (7B) - Council unanimously approved a resolution accepting the donation of real property at 321 McMillan Road (Lot 1, Block A, Chase Edition), approximately 7.2 acres, to be dedicated to the city after the donors pass away. A minimum of four acres must be used as a public park named after Nathan P. Chase; the remainder may be used as the city sees fit. Andy Chase, a former council member and 40-year public school teacher, and his wife were present, and the mayor thanked them for the donation. Individual Consideration: Building Systems Service Agreement (7E) - Councilmember Butler recused from this item. Council approved a resolution authorizing the city manager to execute a Connected Building Services Agreement with Train U.S. Inc. for inspection, maintenance, analytics, and scheduling for city building systems in an amount not to exceed $353,640. Staff described the five-year agreement as including quarterly inspections, preventive maintenance, cloud-based analytics, and a building automation portal, with annual billing and 30-day cancellation notice. Individual Consideration: Water CCN Transfer Agreement (7G) - Council unanimously approved a resolution authorizing the city manager to execute an agreement with the City of Parker to transfer the water CCN service area for approximately 29 acres on McOrta Road to the City of Murphy. Parker had already approved its side. A council member asked how the city would collect the $10,000 reimbursement from the developer; staff said a separate development agreement would be prepared, or the developer could pay directly, and the transfer would not be filed with the Public Utility Commission until a written agreement or check was in hand. Individual Consideration: Sign Code Amendment (8A) - Council unanimously approved an ordinance amending Article 26.02 of the Murphy Code of Ordinances to add definitions for billboards and floating signs and to create a new section listing prohibited signs, including billboards, floating signs, other off-premise signs, and portable signs. Staff described it as code cleanup; the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval unanimously. Executive Session and City Manager Agreement - Council recessed at 6:20 p.m. into executive session under Texas Government Code Chapter 551 Subchapter D to consult with the attorney regarding pending or contemplated litigation, land use and zoning matters, code enforcement nuisances, litigation under Chapter 54 of the Texas Local Government Code, a formal citizen complaint, and a personnel matter involving the city manager. The council reconvened at 7:58 p.m. No action was taken during executive session. - After reconvening, council authorized the city attorney to negotiate an agreement with the city manager as discussed in executive session and authorized the mayor to execute that agreement. The motion passed, with at least one council member voting no or abstaining; the transcript is unclear on the exact tally. Key Outcomes - Approved consent agenda items 7A, 7C, 7D, and 7F unanimously. - Approved the Nathan P. Chase property donation (7B) unanimously. - Approved the Train U.S. Inc. building systems agreement (7E), with Councilmember Butler recused. - Approved the City of Parker water CCN transfer agreement (7G) unanimously. - Approved the sign code ordinance amendment (8A) unanimously. - Authorized negotiation and execution of the city manager agreement following executive session. - No future agenda items were requested. - Adjourned at 7:59 p.m.

The Murphy City Council held its regular meeting on October 20, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Mayor Scott Bradley presided, with Mayor Pratt Scott Smith, Deputy Mayor Ken Otman, and Councilmembers Elizabeth Abraham, Debbie Ison, Kevin Kelly, and Janae Butler present, establishing a quorum. The meeting included public comments, presentations on employee recognition, water loss, and lighting ordinances, approval of prior minutes, and an executive session. Consent Calendar - Approval of October 6, 2026 Regular Council Meeting Minutes: Moved and seconded, passed unanimously with all in favor. Public Comments & Testimony - Mohammed Abdullah: Expressed appreciation for council service, then critically reflected on governance. He identified as a tenth-generation American descendant of Thomas Jefferson and a second-generation Muslim. He stated he wants his children to know the country was built for them too, referencing Jefferson's writings on religious freedom for Muslims. He criticized the State Board of Education's recent curriculum changes and specifically named Mrs. Little as the local representative who voted for them. He declared he will vote against those he believes are "anti-American" and oppose bigotry. He urged council to be mindful of how they vote and speak on such issues. - Shazia Al Hassan: A Murphy resident, asked for a clear public safety plan for Halloween. She cited a 2024 tragedy in Richardson where a mother and daughter died in a highway crash. She requested the current number of registered sex offenders in Murphy and explanation of residency restrictions (within 1,000 feet of places children gather) and how they are enforced. She also suggested increased police patrols, traffic enforcement, crossing assistance, temporary signage, coordination with neighborhood associations, and a supervised location for lost children. She asked the city to share a public safety update before October 31. Discussion Items - Employee of the Quarter: Staff presented the award to Miss Sammy Clark, recognized for service excellence and tenacity. Assistant chief presented the award. - Water Loss Update (Daniel Pratt): Reviewed historical water loss data (2016-2025) and presented third quarter 2026 data. July: 13% water loss (22,168,951 gallons difference), August: 3% (6,053,377 gallons), September: 13% (24,072,405 gallons). The August drop was attributed to quick repairs of six leaks. September increase was linked to rain causing ground shifting and new leaks. Current leak detection methods include proactive field crew observation and reactive citizen reports. The copper service line replacement project (5,300 lines) began August 2026 with an 18-month timeline. As of meeting, only 168 services completed (about 3 per day vs. needed 10 per day). A meeting with the contractor is scheduled for Thursday to address delays; the contract includes liquidated damages for missing the February 2028 deadline. Council asked about completion rates and financial liability. Also clarified that construction hydrant usage includes both city and private projects, all metered. - Light Ordinance Review (Jared, staff): Reviewed current lighting regulations (Chapter 26.04) for non-residential uses: glare restrictions, shielded downlit fixtures, energy efficiency, and the 2019 prohibition on outlining buildings with lights. Noted that new LED technology allowing flashing, color-changing, or rapidly changing lights is not addressed. Staff proposed adding language to prohibit such features. Council member noted a business with orange lights around windows that may be non-compliant. Another member suggested voluntary dimming during bird migration seasons but not mandatory. Council agreed to submit any specific recommendations to the city manager for committee review rather than immediate action. Key Outcomes - Approved: Minutes of October 6, 2026 regular council meeting (unanimous). - No Action: Executive session (6:29 PM to 7:25 PM) held under Texas Government Code for consultation with attorney on pending litigation and employee complaint; no action taken. - Direction to Staff: Council directed that any suggestions for changes to the lighting ordinance be emailed to the city manager for committee review. Staff may bring back a proposed ordinance amendment if council provides specific recommendations. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 7:26 PM.

The Murphy City Council held its regular meeting on October 5, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. The meeting included public comments, presentations on a rental registration program and flock cameras, and discussion of a pedestrian bridge project. Council voted to terminate the flock camera program, tabled the bridge redesign, and approved a dental office site plan. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved unanimously except for Item 7B (FM 544 pedestrian bridge redesign), which was removed for separate discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Maynard Little (1004 St. Mark Drive) criticized the city for not enforcing the city charter regarding the city manager's residency, and urged the council to cut spending and adopt a no-new-revenue tax rate. He questioned the cost of the FM 544 pedestrian bridge, which originally estimated at $3.4 million, then ballooned to over $7 million, and now is proposed at $4.2 million for a redesigned bridge. - Mary White (121 Ridge View Drive) called for accountability and transparency regarding City Manager Aretha Adams, asking the council to listen to residents and protect the city charter. - Rachel Gray (103 Pioneer Path Drive, North Murphy) described a severe erosion issue on her property caused by 65 acres of stormwater runoff. She reported that despite reporting the problem in 2022, the city has taken no action, and a proposed development across the channel may worsen the erosion. She requested immediate remediation and collaboration. - Rhonda Bellamy Hodge (421 Hawthorne Drive) thanked residents for rejecting a petition to allow liquor sales in Murphy, and suggested the city focus on a library, post office, or community garden. - Michael Badilla (323 Apache Trail) read Article 3, Section 16 of the city charter, which grants the council power to investigate city officers and employees, and demanded a transparent public investigation into why the city manager does not reside within city limits. Discussion Items - Fire Prevention Week Proclamation (Item 6A): The council proclaimed October 4-10, 2026, as Fire Prevention Week, emphasizing safe charging of lithium-ion batteries. - Rental Registration Program Presentation (Item 6B): Planning Manager Stephanie Scott Sims presented a proposed mandatory rental registration program for single-family homes, duplexes, manufactured homes, and townhomes. The program would require annual registration and a $150 fee, generating an estimated $57,000 in revenue based on 377 identified rental properties. No internal or external inspections are proposed initially. Council members discussed the need for enforcement, potential inspection triggers, and comparison with other cities' programs. The next step is to bring the proposal to a work session for further discussion. - Flock Camera Program Presentation (Item 6C): The police chief presented the city's flock camera program, which costs $18,000 annually ($15,000 from a state grant, $3,000 from the general fund). He noted that the state has indicated they may no longer fund the grant, and the city has not yet received reimbursement for the 2026 contract year. Council members expressed concerns about privacy, lack of regulation, and the potential for misuse. Options discussed included continuing the program until state funding ends (option B) or issuing a 30-day termination notice (option A). Council unanimously agreed to issue a 30-day termination notice, effective immediately, with the understanding that the city will continue to pursue reimbursement for the 2026 contract year. - FM 544 Pedestrian Bridge Redesign (Item 7B): Council considered a resolution authorizing $127,900 for engineering services to redesign the pedestrian bridge. Several council members proposed pausing the project until a January retreat to reassess city priorities. Others argued that the project is important for safe crossing over Maxwell Creek and has been in development for years. The item died without a motion, effectively tabling it until further discussion at the retreat. - Dental Office Site Plan (Item 8A): The council unanimously approved a site plan for a 6,000-square-foot dental office at the northeast corner of Murphy Road and Betsy Lane. The plan includes 24 parking spaces with a shared parking agreement, a six-foot masonry screen wall, full-cutoff lighting, and compliance with the planned development ordinance. Applicant Dr. Ted Ling stated that the practice will relocate from across the street and plans to operate during regular business hours. - Executive Session (Item 9): The council recessed into executive session at 7:34 p.m. to consult with legal counsel on pending litigation and to discuss the appointment, evaluation, or dismissal of City Manager Aretha Adams. The council reconvened at 9:20 p.m. and reported no action taken. Key Outcomes - Flock Camera Program Terminated: Council directed the police chief to issue a 30-day termination notice to Flock as soon as possible. The program will end, but the city will continue to seek reimbursement for the 2026 contract year. - Pedestrian Bridge Redesign Tabled: The agenda item died without a motion, meaning the project is effectively paused pending a council retreat in January 2027 to reevaluate priorities. - Dental Office Approved: Item 8A was approved unanimously. - Future Agenda Item: Councilmember requested adding a review of the lighting ordinance to a future work session, scheduled for October 10, 2026.

The City of Murphy City Council met on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included public hearings on the proposed FY2027 budget and tax rate, consideration of a budget amendment for railroad quiet zone repairs, and other routine items. Extensive public comment was heard regarding spending, tax rates, city manager residency, infrastructure concerns, and council accountability. The council voted 5-2 to adopt the FY2027 budget, approved a proposed tax rate increase over a no-new-revenue alternative (5-2), and ratified the property tax revenue increase unanimously. Consent Calendar - Items 7A and 7C were approved unanimously: routine approvals and actions. (No specific details provided.) - Item 7B (budget amendment for railroad quiet zone repair) was pulled from the consent agenda and considered separately. Public Comments & Testimony - Non-agenda public comments: - Mike Badia (323 Apache Trail) read a passage from the city charter (Chapter 4, Section 1) requiring the city manager to reside in the city within a reasonable time after appointment. - Megan Vecchio (Willow Point and Rolling Ridge) expressed disappointment with development impacts on traffic; criticized city spending on Teslas, $60,000 for retreats, and $250,000 on litigation over a development outside city boundaries; noted that two current council members were not involved in those decisions (Debbie Ison and Kevin Kelly). She also raised concerns about unfixed sidewalks in Rolling Ridge due to erosion, which children use to get to school, and said she had not seen progress after walking with a city employee over a year ago. - Public hearing on FY2027 budget (8A): - Mary White (121 Ridge View Drive, 29-year resident) questioned the $67 million budget for a city of 22,000 people and asked for justification of new staffing and programs before raising taxes. - Michael Pavia (323 Apache Trail) asked council to vote no on the budget, citing potential cost savings by reducing overtime ($414,000 in fire/police), noting administrative department increase of 36%, IT up 18%, police up 9%, fire up 11%, and suggested comparison with cities of similar size (20-30k population). - Murray Saunders (415 Rocky Glenn Circle) emphasized the need for more infrastructure spending on sidewalks and roads, noting that $300,000 annually is insufficient given weather damage and aging developments. - Megan Vecchio (again) clarified her earlier sidewalk comments referred to muddy, unusable sidewalks near an elementary school, not cracked sidewalks; noted the area was designated as a hike/bike trail under parks and rec. She also reiterated the city charter requirement for the city manager to live in the city. - Darger Tye (Lindridge Estates) urged council to consider residents who can't afford taxes or medication, noting fixed-income seniors and health insurance costs, and asked for proof of homes selling at $500K. - Public hearing on tax rate (8B): - Maynard Little (1004 St. Mark Drive) criticized the budget increase from $33 million (2017) to $67.4 million (proposed FY27), a 106% increase versus 34% CPI, while population grew less than 2%. He called the mayor's refusal to support a senior/disabled tax freeze or exemption increase a shift of tax burden to seniors. He urged adoption of the no-new-revenue tax rate. - Abby Little (705 Pink Creek Road) called for accountability: questioned why the city manager does not reside in Murphy despite the charter requirement (appointed February 2024, still not living in city as of September 2026). She criticized the mayor’s recent behavior on social media as unprofessional and damaging trust. She asked for a public explanation of charter non-enforcement and for the city to demonstrate spending efficiency before raising taxes. - Michael Pavia (again) asked council to vote no on the proposed tax rate and move to adopt the no-new-revenue rate of 0.343487 per $100 valuation. - Scott Gregg, Collin County Tax Assessor-Collector, clarified that his office does not set property values (the appraisal district does) and he only collects taxes as set by entities. Discussion Items - MS4 Stormwater Management Program Presentation (Item 6A): Staff presented the required stormwater management program under the Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System. The city is in its third year of a five-year permit. Four dedicated staff work on the program. Annual reports are submitted. The state conducted an inspection the past year, which was successful. Brief public comment was opened and closed with no speakers. - Budget Amendment for Railroad Quiet Zone (Item 7B): Staff explained a $25,000–$30,000 budget amendment to repair a broken underground cable for a signal 150 yards west of the Murphy Road crossing. The train has been sounding its horn because the signal (an LED X) is not functioning, preventing engineers from verifying the crossing status around a blind curve. Previous repairs to the crossing itself had been done, but this is a separate cable. Council approved the amendment (unanimous). - FY2027 Budget Adoption (Item 8C): Finance Director Berna presented the revised budget following council work sessions (the last on September 9). The revised general fund budget had reductions of $176,960 in recurring costs and $25,000 in non-recurring costs, reflecting council decisions. The overall citywide budget decreased by $201,961 from the proposed version. Public safety makes up 53% of the general fund. The approved budget includes a 5% increase over FY26 adopted. Council voted 5-2 to adopt the budget (Mayor Bradley, Mayor Pro Tem Altman, Councilmembers Abraham, Ison, Butler in favor; Councilmembers Smith and Kelly opposed). - Tax Rate Adoption (Item 8D): The proposed tax rate was 0.361832 per $100 of assessed value (combined M&O and debt service). A motion to adopt the no-new-revenue rate (0.343487) failed 1-6 (only Kelly in favor). A motion to adopt the proposed rate of 0.361832 passed 5-2 (Bradley, Altman, Abraham, Ison, Butler in favor; Smith and Kelly opposed). The mayor noted the rate represents a 3.9% increase. - Ratification of Property Tax Revenue Increase (Item 8E): Council voted unanimously to ratify the revenue increase reflected in the FY27 budget. - Appointment of Boards and Commissions Interview Committee (Item 8F): Council appointed Kevin Kelly, Janae Butler, and Elizabeth Abraham to conduct interviews with applicants. Approved unanimously. - Executive Session: Council recessed at 7:30 PM for executive session under Texas Government Code Chapter 551 to discuss litigation, personnel matters (city secretary and other employees), and a potential work session for a public-private partnership between the chamber and the city. Adjourned at 10:36 PM. Key Outcomes - Approved consent agenda items 7A and 7C unanimously. - Approved budget amendment for railroad quiet zone repair (Item 7B) unanimously. - Adopted the FY2027 general fund budget (Item 8C) by a record vote of 5-2. - Rejected a motion for the no-new-revenue tax rate (Item 8D, first motion) 1-6; adopted the proposed tax rate of 0.361832 per $100 valuation (Item 8D, second motion) 5-2. - Ratified the property tax revenue increase (Item 8E) unanimously. - Appointed boards and commissions interview committee (Item 8F) unanimously.

The Council convened at 6:00 PM to discuss FY27 budget reductions, the special events portfolio, and the pedestrian bridge project. They also confirmed their prior direction on the voter‑approval tax rate. After a budget‑themed icebreaker, the City Manager presented a list of potential program and service reductions totaling $245,610, from which the Council selected $176,960 in permanent cuts. Budget Reduction Options - The City Manager presented a three‑page list of recurring reduction options, emphasizing that proposed cuts were “nice‑to‑have” programs and would not be brought back. - Council members debated each item, voting to keep most community‑facing programs (e.g., Citizens Academy, Fire Open House, National Night Out, Youth Police Academy) while eliminating or reducing others. - Key decisions: - Kept: Citizens Academy, Keep Murphy Beautiful recycling events, Park & Rec month events, budget video (5 kept/1 opposed), Boards & Commissions dinner (reduced from $12,500 to $5,000 via gift cards), Fire Open House, Executive Retreat (reduced by $10,000 to $15,000), Council Retreat (reduced by $5,000), employee Field Day, Town Hall, tuition reimbursement, detective take‑home vehicle program, National Night Out, Citizens Police Academy. - Cut or reduced: Local option election ($25,000, non‑recurring, already dropped), Parks training ($5,000), budget video initially on bubble but kept; Boards & Commissions dinner reduced; employee relations field day kept; tuition reimbursement kept; challenge coin program ($2,000 reduction); second patrol officer position deferred (no new hire in FY27). - Total recurring reductions: $176,960. Special Events Budget - Events Director Matt presented the FY27 events budget, which reduces the number of events from 19 to 14 and cuts the budget from approximately $892,000 to $795,000 (an 11% reduction). - Eliminated events: Hop & Hunt, Moonlight Movies, Scalbration (Halloween), Arbor Day (shifted to tree giveaway), Volunteer & Sponsor Banquet. - Events on watch list for a third‑year evaluation: Food Truck Fridays, Backyard BBQ, and Jingle Jog. - The City’s sponsorhip revenue and in‑kind contributions totaled $111,000 in FY26, exceeding the budgeted $55,000. Pedestrian Bridge - Engineer Donald presented three design options for the pedestrian bridge over SH 544: 1. Basic design (bowstring arch, amber LED lighting, 8‑foot path, 18‑month schedule) – estimated $1.27 million. 2. Improved design (same style, beefier arch, more steel) – estimated $4.5 million. 3. Enhanced design (previously bid twisted arch with colored LEDs) – low bid was $5.6 million (over budget). - Council unanimously selected the basic design as recommended by staff. The project still includes both bridges, connection to Maxwell Road, and amenities (landscaping, pillars, benches). Remaining budget is approximately $5 million; redesign will cost about $128,000. Any savings will remain in the MMD fund. Tax Rate Confirmation - The City Manager asked for clarity on the tax rate direction. Council confirmed that the prior direction to adopt the voter‑approval tax rate (3.5% increase) remains unchanged. The final budget will be presented on September 15, with the tax rate due to the county by noon on September 16. Key Outcomes - $176,960 in permanent budget reductions adopted for FY27, with most community programs preserved. - Second patrol officer position deferred; no increase in police staffing for FY27. - Special events budget cut by 11%, with five events eliminated. - Pedestrian bridge design direction: basic bowstring arch with amber lighting, 18‑month schedule, moving forward to redesign. - Voter‑approval tax rate reaffirmed; final budget adoption scheduled for September 15, 2026.

The Murphy City Council met in regular session at 6:00 p.m. on September 1, 2026, with Mayor Scott Bradley presiding. The council heard the annual economic development report, approved routine items, approved a resolution for a new investment pool and a minor-plat ordinance, and entered executive session before appointing general obligation bond committee members. The transcript identifies the city as Murphy, Texas, despite the file label referencing Idaho Falls. Public Comments & Testimony - Michael Padia, a Murphy resident, urged council to adopt the no-new-revenue tax rate of 0.348240 per $100 of valuation rather than the highest possible rate. He argued the city should cut expenses and said every public entity has budget "fat." He cited his own home-insurance savings of $699 and expressed concern that increases by Wiley Independent School District and the city would absorb those savings. Presentations & Reports - Cameron Thompson, Assistant City Manager/Economic Development Manager, presented the 2026 Annual Economic Development Report. Key figures included: - City limits population estimated at 22,878; average home value about $604,000; average household income about $214,000; 66.5% of residents hold an associate degree or higher. - Retail trade area population approximately 211,000; average household income about $184,000; estimated retail demand about $2.7 billion in 2026, projected to grow by about $1 billion by 2030. - Retail occupancy decreased from 98.5% to 97.5%; net vacancy was about 49,585 square feet, including 18,000 square feet in Murphy Marketplace currently under negotiation. Murphy has about 1.91 million square feet of retail, with 63,000 square feet under construction. - Sales tax revenue rose about 0.65% to about $5,846,106, not including September; staff expected to exceed the 2023 peak. A business that left the city around 2023 was said to account for most of the 2023-to-2024 decline. - Sales tax is derived 64% from in-person transactions and 36% from online sales; 50% of retail is the source of sales tax. - 25 remodel/finish-out permits and 77 single-family permits were issued. Building-permit status: The Ranch, 3 of 7 lots; Crescent Hill, 36 of 37; Enclave, 62 of 64. - Three new construction permits were issued to HEB (car wash, fuel, grocery). Approximately $36 million in commercial improvement value; HEB added 122,187 square feet, with 63,000 additional square feet expected at Murphy Marketplace next year. - 11 businesses opened; recent openings included EOS Fitness, Big Guys Chicken and Rice, HEB, and Mountain Mike's. RWAT Coffee is constructing a patio under the approved Revamp Grant. - Social media reach: 4,300 Facebook followers, 792 Instagram followers; top posts reached 30,000-41,000 views; about 83,000 people were reached over the past year. - The economic development master plan, adopted March 10, 2026, organizes work into four areas: retain, recruit, redevelop, and refine. Upcoming efforts include a new "Why Murphy" website, promotional refresh, business-retention surveys, cross-corridor social media campaigns beginning in December, and a resource guide for new businesses. Discussion Items - Councilmembers discussed the need to follow up with businesses that close, improve visibility for businesses in tucked-away locations, and use business retention surveys to identify obstacles. Suggestions included marketing to visitors for football and band competitions, partnering with local school districts and PSA events, and working with the Murphy Chamber of Commerce. - Regarding the TexStar investment resolution, staff explained this would create a second, separately operated investment-pool account alongside TexPool, yielding 3.69% compared with about 0.48% at the bank. Funds remain liquid with no withdrawal penalty; transfers require two of three designated city finance staff; council oversight is through the quarterly investment report. - Regarding the minor-plat ordinance, staff described it as a cleanup measure that adds state-law conditions and definitions for minor plats to the municipal code, with no operational change to current practice. Executive Session - Council recessed at 6:30 p.m. under Texas Government Code Chapter 551.071 for consultation with the attorney on pending or contemplated litigation, land use and zoning, code enforcement nuisances, and litigation under Local Government Code Chapter 54. Council reconvened at 7:01 p.m.; no action was taken in executive session. Key Outcomes - Approved the August 18, 2026 regular council meeting minutes as presented (unanimous). - Approved Resolution participating in the TexStar investment pool and establishing an account in the city's name for local funds investment, authorizing city officers to execute required forms (unanimous). - Approved Ordinance Project No. 2026.011 amending minor-plat and definition provisions in Chapter 28 of the Murphy Code of Ordinances (unanimous). - Approved the nomination/election of general obligation bond committee members: Bree Hudson, Brandon Kreske, Michael Padilla, Scott Story, and Andrew Jesetis; two at-large resident seats were to be nominated and elected at a later date (unanimous). - Mayor requested a future work session to plan the council retreat in early 2027.

The Murphy City Council convened on August 18, 2026, at 6:00 PM for a regular meeting. The agenda included public comments, presentations on the Citizens Academy graduation, capital improvement projects, and citywide overtime, along with consent agenda items, a discussion on fee schedule amendments, a construction plat, and the adoption of the proposed FY27 tax rate. The meeting concluded with an executive session and future agenda items. Consent Calendar - Items A, B, C, E, and I were approved unanimously via a single motion. Items D (fee schedule amendment) and G (construction plat) were pulled for separate consideration. Public Comments & Testimony - Maynard Little (104 St. Mark Drive) criticized the city's spending, stating that the spending problem has worsened, leading to higher taxes, rates, and fees. He questioned the stormwater fee increase, noting a projected fund balance of $520,000 as of June 30, 2026, versus a 20% reserve of less than $80,000. He requested that the proposed fee schedule item D be removed and fully vetted. - Mary White (121 Review Drive) asked the council to explain what specific expenditure reductions, deferrals, or reprioritizations had been made before requesting a 1.2% tax increase. She requested a five-year forecast under three scenarios, details on the structural imbalance, and justification for the increase rather than using reserves. She also asked about savings from leaving vacant positions, contract reductions, and capital project deferrals. - Kevin McCallister (Murphy resident) commented on the need for better communication between city leadership and residents, and raised concerns about transparency on city-operated Facebook pages. - Sheila Wilkinson (600 Horizon Drive) expressed appreciation for council responses to her concerns, praised the Citizens Academy, but urged careful review of expenses. She noted that inflation pressures residents and suggested cutting non-essential services like music in the park or closing some parks/trails. She offered her expertise as a process improvement analyst to find cost savings. - Kevin McCallister (second comment) echoed support for zero-based budgeting and cross-department evaluation, and noted that property tax is a wealth tax driven largely by school district recapture, not the city. Discussion Items - Presentation: Murphy Citizens Academy Graduation (Cameron Thompson) – 14 graduates completed the program, which included behind-the-scenes sessions with all city departments. Graduates took an oath to remain informed and engaged citizens. - Presentation: Capital Improvement Projects (Donald) – Provided updates on projects: Eastern Road/Tall Tree intersection (80% complete, open to traffic Aug 10), sidewalk repairs (25% complete, completion Nov), copper service line replacement (started Aug 18), Timbers area cast iron water main replacement (bid opens Aug 27), Rodeo tower rehabilitation (construction delayed to Dec), pedestrian bridge (options to be presented Aug 28), FM 544/McCurry right turn lane (60% design), McMillan Road pavement/drainage (advertise winter 2026-27), Skyline sanitary sewer rehab (design complete, construction 2028), and Table Rock Drive/Water's Edge drainage (estimated $400,000). CIP dashboard now available on city website. - Presentation: Citywide Overtime (Berna, Finance Director) – Detailed overtime eligibility, categories, and monitoring. Key departments: Fire, Police, and Community Events. Fire overtime is 71% scheduling-driven; police overtime reduced by $90,000 after policy change separating non-worked hours. Both departments are mostly staffed. Parks and Public Works also monitor overtime. Council discussed the need for a uniform overtime policy and cross-department tracking. - Item D: Fee Schedule Amendment – Solid waste collection (CPI increase of 4.7% per contract), water/sewer rates (rate study scenario three with conservation tiers). Approved unanimously. - Item G: Construction Plat – Enclave of Maxwell Creek Phase 2 – After previous denial due to detention ponds and tree removal concerns, the developer revised the plan replacing ponds with dry swales, reducing grading and tree removal. The developer (DR Horton) confirmed the HOA will maintain the swales. Council expressed disappointment with the first phase construction (facades, rental community). Motion to approve failed for lack of a second. - Item 9a: FY27 Proposed Tax Rate – Extensive discussion. Mayor Bradley noted his 20th budget and emphasized that Murphy has one of the lowest tax rates in the Metroplex (0.36 per $100 valuation). The proposed voter approval tax rate of 0.361832 is a 1.2% increase over the current year, generating approximately $21M in general fund revenues vs. $22M expenditures. The median home value ($592,198) would see an annual tax of $2,143 ($178.56/month). The increase is about $165/year compared to the current year. Council debated reducing the increase to 0.6% or other amounts. Mayor Bradley cautioned against cutting too much, recalling past experience where reduced rates led to subsequent clawbacks and employee pay freezes. The city attorney clarified that the vote tonight sets the maximum rate for the public hearing; council can lower it later. Council decided to set the maximum rate of 0.361832 and schedule a work session on August 28 to discuss possible reductions before the final vote on September 15. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved (items A, B, C, E, I). - Fee schedule amendment (Item D) approved unanimously. - Construction plat for Enclave of Maxwell Creek Phase 2 (Item G) – motion failed for lack of a second. - Resolution adopting FY27 proposed tax rate – passed unanimously (record vote 7-0) setting the maximum rate at 0.361832 per $100 valuation, with a public hearing on September 15, 2026, and a work session on August 28 to consider reductions. - Executive session held from 9:07 PM to 10:20 PM; no actions taken. - Future agenda items requested: city support for businesses (to be discussed at January retreat) and update on current residential developments (to be presented at next meeting).

The City of Murphy held a regular city council meeting on August 4, 2026, at 6 p.m. The meeting included public comments, approval of a special use permit for a bank, an executive session, and a work session to discuss the proposed property tax rate for fiscal year 2027. City Manager also provided updates on upcoming events, including Food Truck Friday, a 9/11 remembrance ceremony, and the Labor Day closure. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously approved the consent agenda as presented. Public Comments & Testimony - James Brummet (423 Rocky Glenn Circle) expressed disappointment over the council's approval of a variance for a neighbor's building, alleging code violations and a lack of site inspection. He raised concerns about property runoff and criticized the council's decision-making process. - Yvonne Rashid (139 Caroline, Daniel Crossing) raised concerns about mosquitoes in her neighborhood, citing a neighbor's tires as a potential breeding ground. She requested mosquito treatment from the city. Special Use Permit for Bank (Item 8A) - The council held a public hearing and considered an ordinance to approve a special use permit (SUP) for a Fifth Third Bank at 205 West FM 544, the former Wendy's restaurant site. The property is zoned planned development retail, requiring a SUP for banks. - Zoning Manager Stephanie Scott Sims presented the item, noting the Planning and Zoning Commission's recommendation for approval. The applicant proposes to convert the existing building into a bank, reconfigure parking, and extend a fire lane to connect to the adjacent Quick Car property. The SUP request is for the use only; a future site plan will be brought for approval. - Council discussion included concerns about the fire lane's impact on Quick Car, the loss of sales tax revenue from the restaurant, and access difficulties. Councilmember Elizabeth Abraham expressed opposition due to the loss of sales tax. The motion to approve the ordinance passed with a vote of 6-1, with Councilmember Abraham voting nay. Executive Session - The council recessed into executive session at 6:19 p.m. under Texas Government Code sections 551.071 (consultation with attorney on pending litigation) and 54 (land use and code enforcement litigation). The council reconvened at 7:10 p.m. with no action taken. Work Session: Property Tax Rate and Budget Discussion - The council conducted a work session to discuss the proposed property tax rate for Fiscal Year 2027. City Manager presented the recommended voter approval tax rate of $0.361832 per $100 valuation, which would generate a 3.5% increase in property tax revenue (approximately $518,000 more in general fund and $210,000 more in debt service). The total proposed tax rate is 36.1832 cents per $100 valuation, up from 35.7514 cents. - The presentation included a five-year forecast showing declining fund balances if revenues do not keep pace with expenditures. The voter approval rate would maintain sustainability, while the no-new-revenue rate (0.348240) would reduce revenue by $373,190 and could lead to financial instability. - Extensive council discussion followed. Mayor Bradley explained that the rate increase is purely inflationary, not a real tax increase, and emphasized the value of city services ($2,143 annually for the median home, or $14 per month). Councilmembers debated the trade-offs, with some supporting the recommended rate to maintain services and others questioning the need for expense reductions. Councilmember Elizabeth Abraham supported the sustainability argument. The council also discussed long-term strategic planning, including potential changes to the over-65 homestead exemption. - At the conclusion, the council gave verbal direction to move forward with the proposed voter approval tax rate of $0.361832 for formal adoption at the September meeting. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda was approved unanimously. - An ordinance approving a special use permit for a Fifth Third Bank at 205 West FM 544 was approved (6-1, Councilmember Abraham voting nay). - No action was taken following the executive session. - The council gave direction to proceed with the proposed voter approval tax rate of $0.361832 for FY 2027, to be formally adopted in September.

The regular meeting of the Murphy City Council was called to order at 6:00 PM. The meeting included a presentation of the Employee of the Quarter award, a water loss report, a city manager update, and approval of the consent agenda. Council also recessed into executive session and reconvened without taking action. Consent Calendar - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously by a motion and second, with all members voting in favor. No items were removed for separate discussion. Presentations - Employee of the Quarter: Ashley Hudson was recognized as the Employee of the Quarter for her work on large‑scale events (e.g., Hop & Hunt, barbecue event). The award was presented by the Recreation Superintendent, who praised her contributions. - Water Loss Report: Donald (staff) presented the annual water loss update. Key points: - Historical water loss peaked in FY2022‑23. For FY2024‑25, loss was 13% (16.8 million gallons), within acceptable norms per Texas Water Development Board methodology. - June 2026 showed 14% loss vs. 13% in June 2025; year‑to‑date loss was 10% in 2026 vs. 14% in 2025. - Leak repairs: 51 in 2024, 40 in 2025, and 19 so far in 2026. - Council‑approved copper service line replacement project (July 7) is expected to begin Aug./Sept. with an 18‑month timeline. Staff noted proactive leak detection is limited during dry conditions, relying on citizen reports. City Manager Staff Reports - HEB will officially open to the public on July 21 at 6 AM; traffic delays are anticipated. - The Emerald City concert (previously canceled) will be rescheduled for Friday, July 31, 7–10 PM at Murphy Central Park. - The next council meeting will be a combined regular meeting and budget work session, starting in chambers then moving to the community room. Executive Session - Council recessed into executive session at 6:16 PM under Texas Government Code §551.071 (consultation with attorney on pending or contemplated litigation) and §54 (code enforcement). Reconvened at 7:00 PM with no action taken. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda was approved unanimously. - No action was taken following executive session. - The water loss report was received and discussed; no formal vote was required. - No items were added to a future agenda.