Public Meetings - Idaho Falls, Idaho

The Mervyn City Council held its third budget work session for fiscal year 2027 on June 30, 2026, starting at 6:00 p.m. City staff presented the proposed fee schedule, a comprehensive budget overview, component unit finances, general fund details, and the utility fund. The city manager emphasized the city's strong financial position, strategic use of fund balance, and adherence to financial policies. Discussion Items Fee Schedule (Presented by Finance Director Bernadette Fitzpatrick Walker) - Solid waste fees will increase by 4.7% due to Republic Services' CPI adjustment. Residential once-per-week service rises from $14.20 to $14.87 (a $0.66 increase), with similar increases for recycling and other services. - Water and wastewater volumetric rates follow Scenario 3 approved last fiscal year: a 7.3% increase for water and 7.61% for sewer. Tiered rates are designed to conserve water by increasing the percentage impact on higher usage. The lowest tier (under 15,000 gallons) has the smallest percentage increase. - Winter averaging methodology changes: Instead of excluding December, the city will now use the three lowest consumption months from November through February to calculate sewer charges. - New meter-related fees were introduced, including meter relocation (price quote basis), meter testing fees ($500 for sending out), meter tampering ($250 minimum plus damages), obstruction fees, and increased meter costs for new meters (residential 3/4-inch meter from $330 to $430; 1-inch from $420 to $530). Council member inquired about a reconnection fee; staff will consider adding one. - Hydrant meter relocation fee set at $25. - The fee schedule is expected to be placed on the consent agenda for adoption in August. Budget Overview (Presented by City Manager) - The budget was developed collaboratively with all departments present, and public engagement increased through an April survey (133 responses) and a new online tax receipt tool launched June 15. - The survey ranked street maintenance as the top priority (133 votes), followed by park improvements (108), personnel growth, software/technology, new equipment, recreation programs, and MCC modernization. - The tax receipt tool allows residents to see how much they pay in property and sales tax to the city and how it is allocated. - Overall fund balance remains strong, with all funds meeting the 20-25% reserve policy through the five-year projection. - Total preliminary budget for all funds is $68.9 million, a 9.2% increase over the prior year, largely due to major capital projects. - One-time funding requests from the general fund total approximately $253,000, funded from fund balance. These include software, facility upgrades, and equipment. Component Units (MCDC and MDD) - The MCDC (4A corporation) fund has a 1% change in budget; one-time requests include tables, painting, sod, volleyball sand, water bottle refilling stations, archery equipment, and event tents ($1,000 each for better durability). - The MDD (4B corporation) fund will fund infrastructure projects: pedestrian bridge ($1.2 million) and HEB turn lane. - Community events budget totals $795,000 for FY27, with revenues of $707,000, including $57,000 in event revenue and $17,000 sponsorship projection for May Days alone. Personnel overtime accounts for approximately $250,000 of the events budget. General Fund Overview - FY27 general fund revenues are projected at $21.2 million, primarily from property tax and sales tax. Expenditures are higher to strategically use fund balance. - Public safety (police and fire) accounts for the largest share, followed by administrative services (22%), public works (13%), and neighborhood services (12%). - Two new patrol officers are budgeted, along with two elections and facility maintenance. - One-time funding of $253,000 from fund balance is recommended. Utility Fund Overview - Utility fund rates follow the approved 5-year rate study; no new rate analysis this year. The city plans to pause annual studies and revisit in FY29 for FY30 rates. - Projected water revenue $12.2 million, sewer $5 million, total utility fund expenditures increase 8% ($1.5 million) largely due to contractual provider cost increases from North Texas Municipal Water District. - The city uses 92% of its budget for contractual services. - Proposed personnel changes: two crew leaders in wastewater and a reclassification of public works superintendent to assistant director. - One-time capital requests include a material storage pad ($80,000), low-water crossing on South Maxwell Creek, and painting of elevated storage tank. - Discussion on water conservation noted that wet weather reduces revenue, and the city is not projected to exceed its cap this year. Key Outcomes - The fee schedule will proceed to adoption on the consent agenda at a future council meeting in August. - The budget work session schedule was adjusted: the July 7 meeting will focus on police department policy, staffing, and equipment; the August 4 council meeting will include a work session for the tax rate; adoption of the tax rate moved from September 1 to September 15. - Council expressed interest in adding a reconnection fee for utility tampering cases; staff will evaluate and potentially include. - No formal votes were taken; all items will be formally considered at upcoming meetings.

The Murphy City Council held a regular meeting on June 16, 2026, at 6 p.m. The meeting included proclamations for Juneteenth, recognition of Mary Pat Ellard for the Veterans Tribute, and Parks and Recreation Month, along with awards for city communications. The council also approved the consent agenda, discussed updates from the NCT 911 Board and COG, and entered executive session to discuss legal matters and the city manager's contract, resulting in an amendment to that contract. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved unanimously without discussion or any items removed. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public addressed the council on items not on the agenda. Proclamations & Recognitions - Juneteenth Proclamation (Item 6a): Councilmember Janay Butler read a proclamation declaring June 19, 2026, as Juneteenth Independence Day in Murphy. June Jenkins, President of the Collin County NAACP, was present to accept. The council encouraged residents to attend a community celebration on Friday. - Recognition of Mary Pat Ellard (Item 6b): Mayor Pro Tem Scott Smith read a proclamation honoring Mary Pat Ellard for her nine-year leadership in establishing the Murphy Veterans Tribute, which recently celebrated its grand opening. - Parks and Recreation Month Proclamation (Item 6c): A councilmember (self-identified as a former Parks Board member) proclaimed July 2026 as Parks and Recreation Month, thanking the Parks and Recreation Department and board members present. - TAMEO Communications Awards (Item 6d): The city’s Communications Director presented two awards from the Texas Association of Municipal Information Officers (TAMEO): second place for a social media post (out of 711 entries, achieving 1,900 followers) and first place for a budget video. The director also announced her resignation after 12 years of service, effective soon. Discussion Items - Council Updates: - Councilmember Janay Butler reported on the June 10 NCT 911 Board of Managers meeting. Key actions included approving minutes, adopting policy revisions for boundary changes, authorizing a contract with Verizon Wireless for emergency services (not to exceed $150,000), and a contract with SHI Government Solutions for Microsoft licensing (not to exceed $250,000). She noted preparations for FIFA and the LA Olympics, including improvements to emergency call handling for international visitors and AI-based language interpretation. A future review of call handling equipment workstation usage may lead to reallocating costs among cities. - Mayor Pro Tem Scott Smith provided an update from the North Texas Council of Governments (COG) General Assembly, which elected new officers and discussed legislative matters. He described the meeting as “a little longer and more contentious” than usual. - City Manager Staff Reports (Item 7): City Manager Aretha Adams announced: - Murphy's Sounds at Sundown summer concert series resumes Friday, June 20 (7–10 p.m.) at Central Park, continuing June 26 with an Elton John cover band. - A budget work session is scheduled for June 30 at 6 p.m. in the community room. - City Hall will be closed on June 19 (Juneteenth) and July 3 (Independence Day). - Executive Session (Items 9a–9b): The council recessed at 6:23 p.m. into closed session under Texas Government Code Chapter 551 to consult with the attorney on pending litigation (code enforcement nuisances) and receive training on employment law basics, and to deliberate the appointment, evaluation, and duties of City Manager Aretha Adams. The council reconvened at 8:16 p.m. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously. - Executive Session Action: The council voted unanimously to authorize the city attorney to amend City Manager Aretha Adams’ contract regarding housing and severance provisions, as discussed in executive session, and to authorize the mayor to execute the addendum. - No future agenda items were requested. The meeting adjourned at 8:17 p.m.

The City of Murphy regular city council meeting was called to order at 6:01 PM on June 2, 2026, by Mayor Scott Bradley. The meeting included presentations, public comments, consent agenda approvals, individual consideration of a police department position, elections for Mayor Pro Tem and Deputy Mayor Pro Tem, an executive session, and action on a construction plat. The meeting adjourned at 8:02 PM. Presentations - Scholarship Awards: Luke Trahan and Steve Dault of the Murphy Chamber of Commerce Scholarship Foundation presented six students (Macy, Maha Risby, Sevy, Surrey Lang, Diane Quadler, Rohemet Aleya Mohammed) with scholarships totaling $174,000 over the program's history. The foundation thanked the Parks and Recreation Department and the city for support. - Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) Update: Staff provided updates on various projects. Completed: 2025 street panel replacement and Gables Road repair. In bidding/contracting: FM544 pedestrian bridge (awaiting TxDOT consensus to reject bids), East Turner Road/Tall Tree intersection improvement (pre-construction meeting June 4, construction start late June/early July, 120-day duration), FY2026 sidewalk repairs, and copper service line replacement (bids open June 4). In design: FM544/McCreary right-turn lane (budget increase from $650,000 to $682,516 approved by MDD, budget amendment to council next meeting); McMillan Road pavement/drainage (advertise October 2026); cast iron water main replacement (advertise July 2026); Rodeo elevated storage rehab (design complete, construction estimate $840,000, original budget $675,000, budget increase of $272,000 recommended). Hawthorne pump station improvements postponed (VFD not needed now, $80,300 budget moved to water service line replacement). CIP dashboard now live on city website with projects categorized by design, construction, and completed. Costs and locations are interactive. - Juneteenth Announcement: Councilmember Janay Butler introduced Tanya Johnson from the Juneteenth Organization of Wiley, inviting the community to the 7th Annual Juneteenth Freedom Celebration on June 13 from 10 AM to 3 PM at Old City Park in Wiley. The organization also hosts First Fridays in Wiley (June 5 at Tailgators). Public Comments & Testimony - Mary Lang: Expressed gratitude to the Murphy Parks and Recreation Department and staff (Matt Foster, Jared McDonald, Jacob Shenk, John Burton, Colton Nations, David Lovato) and North Texas Stonemasons for their work on the Murphy Veterans Tribute. She is commander of American Legion Hill Combat's Post 315 and serves on the Veterans Tribute board. - Maynard Little: Delivered extensive testimony opposing the stormwater fee increase. He stated he has repeatedly requested meetings with council members and staff to understand the basis for the increase but has been refused or canceled on. He provided detailed budget vs. actual expenditure data for the drainage improvements line item: FY23 budgeted $85,000, actual $13,930; FY24 budgeted $110,000, actual $4,007; FY25 budgeted $160,000, actual $5,260; FY26 budgeted $110,000, zero spent halfway through. He claimed the FY25 original budget had a $21,000 adjustment for a vacuum truck repair (questioning why that was classified as drainage improvement). He stated that total FY25 stormwater budgeted expenses were $522,000 but actual expenses were $349,000, leaving a $10,000 shortfall against $339,000 revenue, with a fund balance of $173,000 far exceeding the 20% reserve ($70,000). He argued the fee increase was not needed and should be rolled back. He accused the city of lacking transparency and stonewalling his requests. Consent Calendar - Items A, B, D, and E were approved unanimously. Item C (not specified) and Item F (police department position) were pulled for separate discussion. Discussion Items - Item F: Addition of one full-time patrol officer in police department – Councilmember Kevin Kelly asked about overtime costs covering two officers on military leave. Staff noted hiring a certified officer at a lower step (cadet level) provides cost savings, but overtime will not be fully eliminated due to minimum staffing, sick calls, and training backfill. The motion to approve passed unanimously. - Item 9A: Election of Mayor Pro Tem – Scott Smith was nominated and elected unanimously for a one-year term. - Item 9B: Election of Deputy Mayor Pro Tem – Ken Altman was nominated and elected unanimously for a one-year term. - Executive Session (6:46 PM – 7:57 PM): Council recessed to discuss consultation with attorney regarding pending or contemplated litigation under Texas Government Code Chapter 551.071, specifically code enforcement nuisance litigation and 103 Pioneer Path Drive. No action was taken upon reconvening. - Item 11 (originally item 8C tabled): Case 2026005 – Enclave at Maxwell Creek Phase 2 construction plat – Motion to disapprove because the plat does not substantially conform with the approved concept plan per Section 28.02.004(F) of Murphy Code of Ordinances due to inclusion of detention ponds. Motion passed unanimously. - Future Agenda Items: Councilmember Janay Butler requested future discussion on: e-bike/scooter education for youth and adults regarding roadway rules, and park signage; making health inspection scores mobile-friendly on the city website; and providing detail on inspection violations. Staff noted health inspections are done by a third party and violation details are available via public information request but cautioned against publishing potentially detrimental information. A future presentation on e-bikes was agreed. Dog parks were also mentioned for future discussion. City Manager Staff Reports - Sounds at Sundown concert series kicks off June 5 (rain date TBD if needed) with Emerald City Band from 7-10 PM, running through June. - Next council meeting: June 16, 2026. - City Hall closed June 19 in observance of Juneteenth. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved (items A, B, D, E). - Item F (Police Position): Approved unanimously. One full-time patrol officer added. - Mayor Pro Tem: Scott Smith elected. - Deputy Mayor Pro Tem: Ken Altman elected. - Executive Session: No action taken. - Plat Disapproval: Case 2026005 (Enclave at Maxwell Creek Phase 2) disapproved unanimously due to nonconformance with concept plan. - Future Agenda: Staff to bring presentation on e-bike regulations and signage; IT to improve mobile formatting of health inspection scores; dog parks to be discussed later.

The Murphy City Council held a budget work session on May 27, 2026, to discuss the FY27 budget, focusing on debt issuance, grants, property tax rates, one-time expenditures, technology needs, and staffing. The session was led by city staff, including Finance Director and IT Director, with active participation from the Mayor and Councilmembers. Key decisions included direction to move forward with a potential GO bond election in May 2027, reallocation of ARPA funds, and an advance hire of a police officer. Discussion Items - Debt Issuance & GO Bond Election: Staff presented a plan to position the city for a May 2027 general obligation (GO) bond election, with $27-32 million in identified GO needs and $12 million in certificate of obligation (CO) needs. The city currently has $49.9 million in outstanding debt. A bond committee was proposed to engage the community. Council gave direction to proceed with planning for a May 2027 election. - Grants: Staff recommended abandoning the previously proposed EV charger grant due to heavy staff burden and upfront costs. Remaining ARPA funds ($1,893) will be redirected to technology needs. - Property Tax Rate: Preliminary valuation increased 2% to over $4 billion. Staff recommended adopting the voter approval tax rate of 0.363917 per $100 valuation (up from 0.357514), which would result in an estimated $122 annual increase for the median homeowner ($576,000 taxable value). The INS rate (debt) is projected to remain at 0.0913. - One-Time Expenditures: Staff proposed $245,000 in one-time spending for FY27, including fire equipment, security cameras, medical software, risk management software, CIP tracking, FOIA software, data backup, fire RMS system, cloud phone system, and building permit software. Council discussed the $80,000 placeholder for permit software and requested further detail on ongoing costs. - Technology (IT): IT Director Carter presented major hardware purchases needing approval on June 2, 2026: Nutanix server replacement ($500,000) and Cohesity backup hardware ($55,000). These were moved forward to avoid price increases and long delivery times. A five-year life cycle plan for IT assets was also discussed. - Staffing: Staff requested advance hire of an entry-level police officer before FY27 to backfill two officers on extended military leave, with a net cost of $65,000 offset by savings from vacancies. Council expressed support, and the item will be voted on June 2. Additionally, staff recommended reducing the police/fire step plan from 8 to 7 steps ($70,000) to aid retention, and reclassification of positions (lieutenants to captains). - Vehicle & Equipment Replacement Fund (VERF): Staff outlined contributions and purchases for the VERF, including an ambulance (ordered 3 years ago, expected delivery October 2026) and a growth vehicle, with a target ending balance of $350k by FY31. Key Outcomes - Direction to proceed with May 2027 GO bond election, with staff to begin bond committee formation and project identification. - Approval to redirect ARPA funds from the EV charger grant to cover technology needs. - Agreement to advance hire one police officer before FY27, to be voted on June 2, 2026. - Staff to bring detailed quotes on building permit software and provide overtime cost data for police vacancies. - Council requested a retreat or work session before February 2027 to review specific bond projects. - No action taken on the capital maintenance fund (aspirational) due to budget constraints.

The Murphy City Council met in regular session on May 19, 2026, at 6 p.m. The meeting included public comments, oath administration for newly elected council members, proclamations, a financial report, a water loss update, and a vote to restructure the Youth Advisory Committee. The council also entered executive session on litigation, land use, and real property matters but took no action upon return. Consent Calendar - Items 8A and 8B (routine approvals) were approved unanimously. - Item 8C, a resolution authorizing a two-year contract with Valley View Consulting LLC for investment advisory services, was removed from the consent agenda by the mayor. Councilmember Ison recused herself. The item was then approved unanimously after brief discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Luke Trahan (Chamber of Commerce, immediate past chair and co-chair of the Murphy Local Option Campaign) provided updates: the Chamber is rebranding with a new website launching this Friday; a golf tournament is set for November 13; the local option campaign aims to gather 2,698 signatures by July 17 to place a packaged alcohol sales question on the November ballot; the Chamber awarded six $1,200 scholarships to graduating seniors, with a reception on June 2. He encouraged council and community support. - Rhonda Bellamy Hodge (421 Hawthorne Drive, longtime resident and former Murphy Messenger reporter) spoke passionately against a campaign postcard she received before the May 2 election. She described the postcard as using fear tactics—darkened images, weapons, and references to threats—and compared Murphy to Dearborn, Michigan. She asked that the council and the candidates who benefited from the mailing disavow such rhetoric, emphasizing the need to treat all neighbors with love and respect. She noted that she is Christian and not Muslim, but urged the community to reject hate. - Michael Padilla (323 Apache Trail) stated that many community members and candidates block-walked and knocked on doors for weeks, showing personal engagement beyond mailers and texts. - Dedra (Precinct 25) noted that many residents were unaware of the election and that precinct chairs worked to inform voters about candidates to keep Murphy safe. Discussion Items - Mayor’s Report: Mayor Bradley welcomed newly elected council members and thanked departing members. He emphasized that council focuses on local priorities—streets, sidewalks, police, parks—regardless of party affiliation, and committed to serving the entire community. - Oath of Office: The mayor administered the oath to councilmembers Debbie Ison (Place 3), Kevin Kelly (Place 5), and himself as mayor, all elected on May 2, 2026. He congratulated them and reiterated the importance of nonpartisan service. - Proclamation: Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (May 2026) – Councilmember Elizabeth Abraham read the proclamation and welcomed representatives from the Philippine American Chamber of Commerce, India Association of North Texas, and South Asian American Voter Education (Save Texas). - Proclamation: National EMS Week (May 17–23, 2026) – Councilmember Scott Smith read the proclamation. Fire Chief (unidentified) noted the department already has two life saves and one birth in the ambulance this year, and thanked EMS personnel. - Financial Report for Quarter Ending March 31, 2026 (Second Quarter FY2026): The city’s financial condition is healthy; no contingency plan activation needed. Total sales tax revenue collected exceeded $3.2 million, at 55.9% of budget (ahead of target). Permits and licenses were down compared to prior year due to fewer storm-related permits. Municipal court expenditures decreased because of a staffing restructure (from three to two and a half employees). Solid waste costs increased due to higher contract disposal fees, which were anticipated and covered by a rate adjustment. Interest income rose due to a revised investment strategy and deposit of 2025 CO funds into a TexPool, generating additional interest for project use. Total fund balance projected at $67.1 million as of March 31, 2026, up from $62.1 million at the start of the fiscal year. Capital projects total $26 million remaining; a correction was noted for streets and sidewalk maintenance line items. Council discussed permit fluctuations, court spending, solid waste costs, and debt management. - Water Loss Presentation: For the first quarter of 2026, water loss improved significantly compared to 2025: January 7% (vs 15%), February higher due to multiple cold-weather leaks, March 9% (vs 14%), April 6% (vs 18%). Total 2025 water loss was 186 million gallons (13%), down from 497 million in 2023. The city repaired 51 leaks in 2024, 40 in 2025, and 14 so far in 2026. The major ongoing project is replacing the remaining 5,300 copper service lines with high-density polyethylene; initial bids were rejected as too high, and the project was re-bid on May 14 with bids opening June 4. Staff aim to bring a contract to council by July 7. Construction would take 12 months. Council questioned metrics on leak response times; staff will add performance metrics to future reports. The Texas Water Development Board standard is 15%; below 10% is considered excellent. - City Manager Staff Reports: The Sounds at Sundown summer concert series begins June 5; the second Citizens Academy will run June 11–August 6; City Hall will be closed May 25 for Memorial Day; the Murphy Veterans Tribute dedication is scheduled for May 27 at 11:30 a.m. Two new staff members were introduced: Assistant to the City Manager Cameron Thompson and Planning Manager Stephanie Scott Sims. - Youth Advisory Committee Restructuring: Kayla (staff member) presented a proposal to restructure the Youth Advisory Committee after three years of declining participation—the committee lost quorum for four consecutive months in 2026. Proposed changes include pausing the current standalone committee for one year, developing a Youth Citizens Academy (modeled on the adult program) with six to seven weekly sessions, and after completion, allowing teens to apply as liaisons to existing boards (e.g., Parks and Recreation, MCDC, MDB). The goal is deeper engagement and learning about city governance. Council expressed support for the restructured format and the liaison approach. Motion to approve restructuring passed unanimously. - Executive Session: Council recessed at 7:20 p.m. for executive session under Texas Government Code sections 551.071 (consultation with attorney on pending/contemplated litigation and land use matters, including a pedestrian bridge) and 551.072 (deliberation on real property for Project Alpha). Reconvened at 8:47 p.m. with no action taken. - Future Agenda Items: Councilmember Abraham requested a Juneteenth proclamation with a presentation; the mayor confirmed it will be handled as a proclamation and speaker. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Items A and B approved unanimously. - Resolution for investment advisory services (Item 8C) approved unanimously (Councilmember Ison recused). - Youth Advisory Committee restructuring approved unanimously. - No action taken following executive session. - The next regular council meeting is scheduled for May 27, 2026, as a budget workshop in the community room.

The City of Murphy City Council held a special called meeting on May 11, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting included an invocation, Pledge of Allegiance, roll call to confirm quorum, and the approval of election results. The Mayor also recognized two outgoing council members with plaques. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public addressed the council on non-agenda items. Discussion Items - Approval of Election Results: The council considered and unanimously approved an ordinance canvassing the returns and declaring the results of the May 2, 2026 general election for mayor, council member place three, and council member place five, each for three-year terms, as well as a special election on the reauthorization of a local sales and use tax for municipal street maintenance and repair. The vote was unanimous among the seven council members present. - Recognition of Outgoing Council Members: Mayor Scott Bradley added an agenda item to present plaques to Laura Deal and Andrew Chase. The Mayor thanked Deal for her passion and service, and Chase for his wisdom and service. He also expressed disappointment with the election outcome and a desire to keep national politics out of local elections. Both honorees expressed gratitude. Key Outcomes - The council voted unanimously to approve the ordinance certifying the May 2, 2026 election results. - The Mayor presented recognition plaques to outgoing Councilmembers Laura Deal and Andrew Chase. The meeting adjourned at 6:05 PM.

The City of Murphy held its regular city council meeting on May 5, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Mayor Scott Bradley presided, with all council members present. The meeting included public comments, proclamations, city manager reports, consent agenda items, and discussion on several resolutions and ordinances. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Items A, B, E, and F were approved unanimously. Items C and D were removed for separate discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Michael Padilla (323 Apache Trail) congratulated Mayor Scott Bradley on re-election and new council members Kevin Kelly and Debbie Ison, and thanked outgoing members Andrew Chase and Laura Deal. He spoke about the U.S. Constitution as the perfect balance between tyranny and anarchy, stated his opposition to communism, socialism, and Islam, and claimed that 60% of the electorate provided a mandate for those who govern. - Debbie and James Brumit (423 Rocky Glenn Circle) expressed opposition to the planning and zoning commission's 5-2 approval allowing a neighbor to place a metal building 5 feet from their fence, instead of the required 10 feet. They cited concerns about property value, noise from late-night car work, and lack of time to obtain a survey. - Mary Pat Elage (150 Shelby Trace) provided an update on the Murphy Veterans Tribute, nearly complete, and invited the council and public to the ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony on May 27, 2026, at 11:30 AM. Presentations & Proclamations - Proclamation – National Police Week (May 10–16, 2026): Read by Councilmember Scott Smith. Police Chief thanked the council and introduced the police cadet program. - Proclamation – National Public Works Week (May 15–21, 2026): Read by Mayor Scott Bradley. Public Works Director accepted the proclamation and thanked the council. City Manager Reports - Moonlight Movies returns on May 15, 2026, with an adults-only showing. - Sounds at Sundown will be held every Friday in June from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Murphy Central Park. - Murphy Youth Citizens Academy applications are open; the program runs from June 11 to August 6, 2026, on Thursday evenings from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM, limited to 20 spots. Discussion Items - Item 8C – Resolution for FY2027 Catalytic Converter Grant Program (SB 224): Police Chief explained the resolution allows the city to apply for a grant to fund existing flock cameras. Annual city cost is $3,000 from the special investigative fund. Security measures include limiting camera access to Texas only, a 30-day audit, and requiring a case number for officer access. The program is proactive; thefts are low. Councilmember asked about performance metrics; the chief committed to quarterly updates and an annual report. Motion passed unanimously. - Item 8D – Ordinance amending FY26 General and ARPA funds: Transfer of $37,000 from ARP fund interest to capital outlay for modifying the former Chamber of Commerce space into a public-facing area (safety glass, new counter, furniture). This is a one-time cost; design will not return to council. Cost overruns would require additional budget amendments. Motion passed unanimously. - Item 9A – Public Hearing for Replat of Lot 3A Block 1, McQuery Marketplace (HEB property): Jerry presented a replat removing existing easements. A pedestrian access easement along the western border is required per site plan conditions, with a development agreement forthcoming. No public comment. Motion passed unanimously. - Item 9B – Resolution for FY2026 Sidewalk Replacement Project: Approval of low bid from Niam LLC ($279,446.03) and a change order up to 25% ($69,861.51) for a total of $349,307.08, adding about 41 additional locations (total 2,275 square yards). Priority will be given to the worst trip hazards, starting in South Murphy. The backlog is approximately 460 items, many cosmetic. Funding comes from the street maintenance fund (sales tax reauthorized by voters on May 2, 2026). A new construction inspector will ensure quality. Motion passed unanimously. Executive Session - The council recessed into executive session at 6:44 PM under Texas Government Code Chapter 551 for consultation with attorney on pending litigation (code enforcement) and economic development negotiations. Reconvened at 7:09 PM. No action taken on the litigation item. The council approved a financial incentive for business prospect (ARWA coffee) of up to $50,000 based on application. Motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Votes: All votes during the meeting were unanimous. - Consent agenda items A, B, E, F approved. - Item 8C (catalytic converter grant resolution) approved. - Item 8D (budget amendment) approved. - Item 9A (replat) approved. - Item 9B (sidewalk replacement contract) approved. - Financial incentive for ARWA coffee (up to $50,000) approved. - Next Steps: The city manager will bring forward additional proposals for use of ARP funds and a development agreement for the HEB property. Meeting adjourned at 7:10 PM.

The City Council of Murphy, Texas, held a regular meeting on April 21, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting included a prayer, pledge of allegiance, roll call, public comments, proclamations, a racial profiling report, city manager updates, consent agenda approval, and an executive session. No action was taken in executive session. Proclamations - Child Abuse Prevention Awareness Month: Mayor Pro Tem Elizabeth Abraham read the proclamation. Dan Powers, CEO of the Children's Advocacy Center of Collin County, reported that in 2025 there were 47 cases from Murphy. He described the center's work in restoring children's voices after abuse. - National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week: Councilmember Scott Smith read the proclamation. Chief Gibson praised dispatchers as the vital link between the public and first responders. - National Animal Control Appreciation Week: A council member read the proclamation. Chief Gibson highlighted the animal control officers' service to Murphy and the City of Parker, and their role in promoting pet responsibility. Public Comments - Maynard Little (1004 St. Mark Drive) addressed the council. He stated that for four previous meetings he had requested meetings with council members to discuss the stormwater fee increase, but only one council member responded. He criticized Councilmembers Deal and Chase for not meeting with him and for not responding to emails. He argued the fee increase was not needed, citing budget discrepancies: drainage improvements were budgeted at $160,000 for FY25 but actual spending was only $5,259.54, and similar overspending appeared in prior years. He questioned the transparency and due diligence of the council regarding the fee increase. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved unanimously without discussion or removal of items. Presentations - Racial Profiling Report: Eric Fritz of Justice Research Consultants presented the 2025 annual report. The Murphy Police Department is fully compliant with the Texas Racial Profiling Law. Key findings: 8,900 traffic stops; officers knew the race/ethnicity of the driver prior to the stop in only 1.1% of stops. Post-stop outcomes were consistent across racial groups. Searches occurred in 4.6% of stops (state average 4.4%); 54% of searches found contraband (state average 45%), primarily drugs. Consent searches were 1.3% of stops (state average 1.1%). Councilmember Oldman asked about search-related arrests; Fritz noted that when contraband was discovered, an arrest was made 22% of the time. City Manager Reports - City Manager Refa provided updates: Early voting is underway (closed April 21 for election holiday, resumes April 22, ends April 28; election day May 2). Drug Take Back event this Saturday at the police department. Murphy's Backyard Barbecue on April 25 at Central Park. Moonlight Movies (adults only) on May 15 at Central Park. Sounds at Sundown concert series begins June 5. Executive Session - The council recessed into executive session at 6:34 PM under Texas Government Code Chapter 551 to discuss litigation, land use, service lines, and code enforcement. The session ended at 7:19 PM with no action taken. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - Proclamations were read and recognized. - No votes or policy decisions were made on the racial profiling report or city manager updates. - No action was taken following executive session. - The meeting was adjourned at 7:20 PM.

The Murphy City Council met on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. The meeting featured presentations, public comments, consent agenda approvals, a resolution on 911 funding, and an executive session. The council recessed from 6:15 p.m. to 6:35 p.m. for a reception and reconvened at 6:35 p.m. Executive session ran from 6:59 p.m. to 7:48 p.m. with no action taken. Consent Calendar - Approved consent agenda items A, D, and E unanimously. Item A had revised language about public comments and removal of reconvening language from joint meeting minutes. - Items B and C were removed from the consent agenda and considered separately; both were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Maynard Little, 1004 St. Mark Drive, addressed the council on transparency. He criticized the city's responsiveness, citing delays in responses to open records requests and lack of replies from councilmembers. He requested individual meetings with each council member to discuss the stormwater fee increase. He expressed frustration that councilmembers Smith and Chase have never responded to his inquiries. Presentations - Recycled Truck Art Contest (6A): JC presented the winners of the 13th annual contest. 39 students from kindergarten through 10th grade submitted artwork on what "Keeping Murphy Beautiful" means to them. Second-place artwork will be displayed as vinyl decals at park pavilions (a new initiative replacing Big Belly trash cans). First-place artwork will appear on a Republic Services truck for one year. Winners were recognized, and a reception followed. - Proclamations: The council proclaimed April 2026 as Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month (read by Elizabeth Abraham, recognizing Turning Point Rape Crisis Center) and April 22, 2026, as Earth Day (read by Laura Deal, highlighting the city's spring cleaning green event on April 11). - Employee of the Quarter (6D): Anisha Sabu announced Shannon Long from the police department as the second employee of the quarter for fiscal year 2026, recognized for going above and beyond and embodying the city's core values. Police Chief presented the award. Discussion Items - Item 7A – Upcoming Events: City Manager Staff reported upcoming events: Spring Cleaning Green (April 11, 9 a.m.–noon), early voting (April 20–25 at Murphy Community Center), drug takeback event (April 25, 10 a.m.–noon), Murphy's Backyard Barbecue (April 25, 12–3 p.m.), Moonlight Movies adults-only night (May 15 at Murphy Central Park), and next council meeting (April 21). - Item 9A – Resolution on Wireless 911 Fee Adjustment: Councilmember Janay Butler introduced the item, noting that the statewide 911 wireless fee has remained 50 cents per device since 1997, creating an unsustainable shortfall. Texas reported a $75.9 million deficit in 2022, projected to grow to $112.9 million by 2027 (a 48% gap). 911 districts cannot levy property taxes and rely solely on state-set fees. Liana Russell from North Central Texas Emergency Communication District provided background, highlighting unfunded mandates for next-generation 911 and the district's early adoption of text-to-911 and real-time text capabilities. The resolution supports adjusting the fee to 75 cents and a sustainable funding model. The council approved the resolution unanimously. - Item 9B: Tabled to the May 19, 2026, regular city council meeting. Key Outcomes - Approved consent items A, D, and E. - Approved Item B (construction plat extension for Platform Gardens, 311 McMillan Road). - Approved Item C (replat for Palatine Investment Group, 141 North Murphy Road, subdividing lot and adding fire easement). - Approved Item 9A (resolution supporting statewide wireless 911 fee adjustment). - Tabled Item 9B until May 19, 2026. - Executive session held; no actions taken.