Public Meetings - Killeen, Texas

The Killeen City Council held a special meeting on July 14, 2026, at 5:00 PM in City Hall. All council members were present. The agenda included discussion of charter amendments related to citizen comments, additional charter amendments, and the animal adoption facility. An executive session was held to discuss the interim city manager appointment, with no action taken. The meeting adjourned at approximately 7:12 PM. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved unanimously (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - First speaker (unidentified) criticized the council for limiting non-agenda citizen comments, urging them to allow residents to speak and to show compassion and leadership. - Michael Fornino (identified as City Attorney but speaking as a resident) accused the council of restricting transparency and accountability, noting he is still suing the city. He urged the council to be firm with the next interim city manager and to enforce the employer-employee relationship. - Speaker on animal adoption facility (unidentified, likely a resident) stated that the public was not informed about mold at the Rancier facility until after a news story. She argued the building is unsuitable for an animal shelter and recommended a long-term solution designed by an architect specializing in animal shelters. - Jamie Carroll expressed concern about accountability for the mold issue, noting that euthanasia costs and capacity problems worsen. She called for a transparent foster program and a trap-neuter-release program to reduce shelter population. - Dr. Sue Nicy Croft urged the council not to lock procedural mechanics (e.g., requiring comments to be addressed only to the council as a whole) into the city charter, as that would create rigidity and could cause operational chaos. She recommended keeping broad principles in the charter and operational details in ordinances or governing standards. - Leo Gukizen criticized the council for rejecting seven of ten charter review committee recommendations, stating that the council's actions show arrogance and prevent voters from deciding on their own charter. He said the three approved recommendations only benefit the council, not the citizens. Discussion Items - DS-26-060: Charter Amendments Related to Citizen Comment Period - Staff (Mr. Wallander) presented the Charter Review Committee's recommendation to add a citizen comment period on non-agenda items into the city charter. He noted that no comparable cities have such a charter provision; most have rules set by council ordinance. The proposal would add language to Section 36 of the charter. - Councilmember Brown moved to accept the recommendation. No second was made; the motion failed. - Councilmember Bass moved to reject the charter amendment and instead place citizen comments on non-agenda items into the governing standards (which are adjustable), arguing the charter is too rigid and could allow personal attacks. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Kendricks. - Debate included concerns about meeting logistics and the desire to keep the charter flexible. Some council members supported putting it in the charter to prevent future councils from removing the right, while others preferred the governing standards for easier adjustments. - The motion to reject the charter amendment passed 6-1 (Councilmember Kimball opposed). A subsequent vote on the proposal to reject (i.e., to not include in the charter) passed 5-2 (Brown and Kimball opposed). The item will be addressed in the governing standards rather than the charter. - DS-26-061: Additional Proposed Charter Amendments - Councilmember Brown proposed an amendment making staff in executive/management positions who resign or retire ineligible to hold that position for three years (whether permanent or temporary). No second was offered; the motion failed. - Councilmember Kendricks proposed an amendment requiring that only a registered voter residing in a district may initiate a recall petition against that district's council member. Currently, any city elector can initiate. The motion passed 6-1 (Councilmember Brown opposed). This amendment will be included in the ballot language. - Councilmember Nash-King raised a concern about recall grounds, but staff noted that the council had already approved moving forward with specific grounds (malfeasance, incompetence) in a prior meeting. - DS-26-059: Discuss Animal Adoption Facility - Mrs. Wilson (staff) presented an update on the animal adoption facility at 2600 Rancier Avenue (formerly East Lake Veterinary Clinic), purchased for $1.77 million in 2023. The facility closed in March 2026 after mold was discovered. Remediation cost $44,000. A CIP request for $1.67 million was submitted to correct drainage and add kennel space. - Staff is engaging an architect to assess the building and provide options for renovation, expansion, or potential new construction. A portable building is being rented ($1,800/month) to continue veterinary services. - Council members expressed concerns about the total investment (current + planned = $3.45 million) and whether renovating is more cost-effective than building new. Councilmember Brown suggested selling the building and building a new shelter; others wanted to see architect assessments first. - Staff committed to bringing back options with costs, timelines, and long-term maintenance plans before any further spending. Council will have oversight. Key Outcomes - Citizen comment period on non-agenda items: The proposal to add this to the city charter was rejected (5-2). The council will instead consider placing it in the governing standards for future adjustment. - Recall petition initiation: An amendment requiring recall petitions against district council members to be initiated only by registered voters within that district was approved (6-1). This will be placed on the ballot. - Staff resignation/retirement restriction: A motion to make staff ineligible for three years after resignation/retirement failed for lack of a second. - Animal adoption facility: No decision was made. Staff will return with architect assessments and cost comparisons before any further funding is approved. The council emphasized oversight and the need to evaluate all options (renovation vs. new build). - Executive session: The council met in closed session from 6:43 PM to 7:12 PM to discuss the interim city manager appointment. No action was taken.

The Planning and Zoning Commission held a workshop at 4:30 PM and a regular meeting at 4:50 PM on July 13, 2026, in the Utility Collections Large Conference Room. Commissioners present included Vice Chairman Giacomozzi, Alvarez, Cooper, Jones, Moss, Rowe, and Sabree; Chairman Purifoy and Commissioner O'Brien were absent. The meeting addressed two city-initiated rezoning requests and received an update from staff on a recent City Council action. Discussion Items - PH1 (Case Z26-11): A city-initiated request to rezone part of Lots 1 & 5, Block 6, North Side Addition and Lot 1, Block 5, Replat of Lots 1 & 2, Block 5, North Side Addition (312 and 313 East Texas Avenue) from B-3 (Local Business District) to R-1 (Single-Family Residential District). Staff noted both properties contain existing single-family homes that are legal non-conforming under the city code. Rezoning would bring the current use into compliance and allow for permits, sale, or refinancing. The properties lie in the infill and enhanced area (designated traditional neighborhood in the 2040 comprehensive plan). Staff sent consent forms to the two property owners and notified 63 surrounding property owners; no responses were received. Staff recommended approval. - PH2 (Case Z26-12): A city-initiated request to rezone approximately 0.144 acres (H O’Neal Survey, Abstract 645) from B-3 to R-2 (Two-Family Residential District) and Lot 1, Block 1, Mulford Addition from B-3 to R-1 (Single-Family Residential District) – properties at 1401 and 1411 Mulford Street. 1401 is a single-family home; 1411 is a duplex. Similar to PH1, rezoning would resolve legal non-conforming status. Staff sent consent forms to the two property owners and notified 70 surrounding property owners; no responses were received. Staff recommended approval. - Staff Update: Executive Director of Development Services Wallis Meshier reported that at a recent City Council meeting, a petition for disannexation of a property on South Fort Hood Street (the 195 used auto parts property) was disapproved. Council directed staff to bring forward a city-initiated item to rezone that property to make it conforming, which will appear at a future commission meeting. - New Staff Introduction: Planner Maya Hannon was introduced as a new planning technician, her first day on the job, with experience in New Braunfels utilities and engineering and planning study. Key Outcomes - PH1 was approved unanimously (motion by Commissioner Alvarez, second by Commissioner Cooper; all present voted in favor). - PH2 was approved unanimously (motion by Commissioner Alvarez, second by Commissioner Cooper; all present voted in favor). - The next regular meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission is scheduled for July 27, 2026, immediately following a workshop at 4:30 PM.

The Killeen City Council convened on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at 3:00 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included a work session and regular session, lasting until 10:47 PM. Key topics included the FY2027 proposed budget, governing standards amendments, an investigation into the Killeen Economic Development Corporation (KEDC), the ADA transition plan, a poet laureate program, a disannexation petition, and numerous consent agenda items. Consent Calendar - RS-26-101: Renewed independent auditing services agreement with Pattillo, Brown & Hill, LLP for FY2026. - RS-26-102: Set July 28, 2026, at 5:00 PM as the date for the public hearing on the FY2027 Proposed Budget. - RS-26-103: Approved FY2027 fee increases for the Animal Services Division (passed 4-1). - RS-26-104: Readoption of Governing Standards postponed to the July 21, 2026 meeting (motion passed 5-0). - RS-26-105: Approved appointment of Elaine Simpson as City Secretary (passed 5-0). - RS-26-106: Authorized Change Order No. 4 for the Gilmer Street Reconstruction Project with TTG Utilities, Inc. in the amount of -$403,083.06. - OR-26-010: Authorized temporary traffic control changes on Llewellyn Drive during capital improvement construction. - OR-26-011: Established a school speed zone along Breeder Lane. - OR-26-012: Conditional use permit for a wireless telecommunication tower at 7432 East Trimmier Road was postponed to the August 4, 2026 meeting (passed 5-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Llewellyn Lane Safety: Several residents (Barbara Schneider, Michael Robertson, James Sills) expressed strong support for maintaining traffic control signs on Llewellyn Lane, citing dangerous speeding (recorded at 76–84 mph on a 30 mph road) and a 1,056% increase in traffic volume from a baseline of 97 ADT. Councilmembers Bass and Kendrick noted they had visited the site and agreed with the need for safety measures. - Wireless Tower: Donald F. Smith and Cecil Adams spoke in favor of the tower, arguing it would serve new housing developments and that staff and federal/state approvals should be trusted. - Disannexation (Fort Hood Street): Attorney Tim Pearson argued the city failed to provide required services (e.g., wastewater) under state law and warned of mandatory attorney’s fees if the city lost a lawsuit. Dr. Sue Nisi Croft opposed disannexation, calling it a “regulatory workaround” that would allow a data center and set a dangerous precedent. - ADA Transition Plan: Jessica Dominguez and Michelle Lammers urged support, emphasizing the need for accessible parks, sidewalks, and city buildings for families including those with disabilities. - Other: Dr. Sue Nisi Croft also criticized the city’s auditing firm and requested a new auditor. A citizen (Leo Gukizen) voiced concerns about the new governing standards for non-agenda citizen comments, calling the three-minute limit and 10-speaker cap restrictive. Discussion Items - Governing Standards (RS-26-104): The council reviewed a list of proposed amendments. After extensive debate, the following motions of direction were passed: - Move regular meeting start time to 5:00 PM (passed 5-1). - Add invocation and pledge to special meetings (passed 6-0). - Remove requirement that citizen participation forms be submitted before meeting start (passed 4-2). - Set procedure for council investigations (to be brought back later) (passed 6-0). - Clarify that staff presentations are not required for consent agenda items unless a council member requests an item be pulled (amended to require only one council member to pull an item; the amendment failed, but the original motion passed). - Direct that all council requests for information be sent to a single point in the city manager’s office (passed 4-2). - Prohibit council members from attending executive staff meetings (passed 5-1). - Require structured quarterly meetings between council and Planning and Zoning Commission (passed 6-0). - Limit each council member to two opportunities to speak per agenda item, each limited to two minutes (tied 3-3; motion failed). - KEDC Investigation (DS-26-057): City Manager Cagle denied allegations that he directed KEDC to ignore council priorities on grocery stores. Councilmembers Nash-King, Gonzalez, and Kendrick acknowledged meeting with him and finding no evidence. Councilmember Brown apologized for using the word “directive” but stood by the need for transparency. The council concluded no investigation was warranted. - FY2027 Proposed Budget (DS-26-054): City Manager Cagle presented a $316.7 million all-funds budget with a $137 million general fund (3.19% increase). Property tax rate is proposed to increase by 2.01 cents to 72.15 cents per $100 valuation. Water and sewer rates would increase 2.16% on an average bill (5,600 gallons). Sales tax remains flat. The budget includes a 3% cost-of-living adjustment for employees. A public hearing is set for July 28, 2026. - Capital Improvement Program (DS-26-055): Staff presented a 5-year CIP with $59.8 million in FY2027 projects, including $16.4 million for transportation (e.g., Stagecoach, Zephyr Road) and $4.2 million for waterline rehabilitation. Zephyr Road construction is expected in 5–6 years. - ADA Transition Plan (DS-26-056): Staff presented a draft plan resulting from a 2022 DOJ settlement. The plan identifies $6.4 million in facility improvements (20-year timeline) and $267 million in public right-of-way improvements (30-year timeline). The council expressed strong support and will consider adoption on July 21, 2026. - Poet Laureate Program (DS-26-053): The Arts Commission proposed a $18,750 program. Councilmembers Nash-King, Bass, and Brown recommended deferring to the next budget cycle due to other priorities. A motion to include local poets at downtown festivals passed (5-0). - Disannexation (PH-26-020): The council held a public hearing on a petition to disannex 25.6 acres on Fort Hood Street. After hearing testimony, the council voted unanimously (5-0) to deny disannexation. A subsequent motion to direct staff to bring back a zoning recommendation (e.g., B4 with a conditional use permit) passed 5-0. - Future Agenda Items: A request to bring back a citywide flood map study lacked a second and failed. A request for a Killeen Housing Authority update also lacked a second and failed. Key Outcomes - Votes on Consent Agenda: All items except those specifically pulled (Animal Services fees, Governing Standards, City Secretary appointment, cell tower) were approved en bloc. - Votes on Governing Standards: Seven motions of direction passed (see above); several others failed due to lack of second or tie votes. - KEDC Investigation: Concluded without further action; council members expressed regret over the process. - Budget and CIP: Public hearing set for July 28, 2026; further discussion scheduled at each meeting before adoption. - ADA Plan: Final adoption scheduled for July 21, 2026. - Disannexation: Denied; staff directed to bring a zoning recommendation to a future meeting. - Poet Laureate: Postponed to FY2028 budget; festivals to include local poets. - Executive Session: The council adjourned to closed session at 9:47 PM to discuss Rosa Hereford Community Center construction and legal matters (Carson with attorney). The meeting adjourned at 10:47 PM.

The Planning and Zoning Commission met on June 22, 2026, at 4:30 p.m. for a workshop followed immediately by the regular meeting at 4:37 p.m. in the Utility Collections Large Conference Room. The primary action was a public hearing and unanimous approval of a Future Land Use Map (FLUM) amendment from Industrial to Residential Mix for a 45.062-acre parcel at 801 N Roy Reynolds Drive. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda – Motion by Commissioner Cooper, second by Commissioner Alvarez, passed unanimously. - Approval of Minutes – Motion by Commissioner Alvarez, second by Commissioner Cooper, passed unanimously. (Minutes from June 8, 2026, were approved as presented.) Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up for citizen comment. - During the public hearing for PH-1, no one spoke in support or opposition. Discussion Items - Workshop (4:30 p.m.) – Staff reviewed the agenda items and provided updates on City Council actions related to P&Z items. No votes were taken. - PH-1: Future Land Use Map Amendment (Case FLUM26-01) – Applicant (Michael Reinhardt, represented by Republic Engineering & Development Services) requested changing the Comprehensive Plan’s FLUM designation for 45.062 acres from Industrial to Residential Mix. The site is currently an auto salvage yard zoned M-2 (Heavy Manufacturing) and is surrounded by residential and some commercial uses. Staff noted environmental concerns (floodplain, wetlands, potential contamination from historical salvage use) and that an independent environmental site assessment would be warranted. Staff notified 101 surrounding property owners; zero written responses were received, though staff received a voicemail from the adjacent property owner indicating opposition (no written response received). Staff recommended approval to enable future residential development, with the next step being a rezoning application. The applicant briefly stated the change “fits the area a little bit better.” The Commission discussed no further details and moved to a vote. Key Outcomes - PH-1 Approved – Motion by Commissioner Alvarez, second by Commissioner Cooper. Vote: unanimous (all present commissioners in favor). The FLUM amendment from Industrial to Residential Mix is approved as presented. The item will proceed to City Council with the staff recommendation and any late-written opposition received. - Adjournment – Motion by Commissioner Cooper, second by another commissioner, meeting adjourned.

The Killeen City Council held a special meeting at 5:00 PM on June 22, 2026, to discuss and vote on several proposed charter amendments recommended by the Charter Review Committee. Topics included council-initiated investigations, candidate filing fees, initiative and referendum requirements, change order briefings, recall procedures, and judicial removal of elected officials. Six citizens provided public comments, and the council took final votes on each item. Public Comments & Testimony - Charles Carroll (District 3) urged the council to codify a detailed process for council-initiated investigations, stating that currently employees can stop responding and no resolution is reached. - Jeff Sidel (former council member) attempted to speak about a former employee but was ruled off-topic by the mayor; his comments were not heard. - Patsy Bracey criticized the council for not listening to citizens, saying the current citizen comment limitations discourage participation. - Michael Fornino argued for adding judicial removal of elected officials to the charter, citing specific allegations against a council member and stating that citizens need a tool when the council refuses to investigate. - Leo Gukisen advocated for enshrining the citizen comment period in the charter itself, calling it a constitutional right that should not be removable by a future council. - Aeroselli Cook (District 4) supported easier recall procedures and investigations, saying officials who do the right thing should not fear scrutiny. Discussion and Votes on Charter Amendments 1. City Council Initiated Investigations - Proposal: Amend charter to require an ordinance specifying procedures for council investigations. - Councilmember Kendricks moved to not advance the change to the charter and instead address procedures in governing standards. - Motion passed 5–2. - Outcome: The charter will not be amended; the council will create investigation procedures via governing standards. 2. Candidate Filing Fee - Proposal: Require a $100 filing fee or a petition signed by 50 registered voters (for district candidates, 25 per amended motion). - Councilmember Brown moved to amend: 25 signatures for district candidates, 50 for at-large/mayor. Motion passed 5–2. - Councilmember Bass then moved to reject the entire recommendation (maintain status quo with no fee or signature requirement). Motion passed 5–2. - Outcome: No filing fee or signature requirement will be added to the charter. 3. Initiative and Referendum Procedures - Proposal: Reduce signature requirement to the number of voters who voted for mayor; extend certification deadline to 30 days; allow council to adopt a petition if consistent with state law. - Councilmember Kimball moved to accept with a modification: use "all voters who voted in the last regular municipal election" instead of only mayoral voters. - Motion passed 6–1. - Outcome: The amended changes will proceed to the ballot for voter approval in the next charter election. 4. Change Order Briefings - Proposal: Require the city manager to brief the council quarterly on all monetary change orders (increases or decreases). - Councilmember Bass moved to reject. - Motion passed 5–2. - Outcome: No charter amendment; the council will rely on existing communication and oversight. 5. Recall Procedures - Proposal: Reduce signature requirement for at-large recalls to 50% of votes received by that council member; limit one recall per term; extend city secretary response time from 1 to 5 business days. - Councilmember Bass moved to reject the entire recommendation. Motion passed 6–1. - Councilmember Nash-King then moved to adopt only the five-day extension for the city secretary. Motion passed 6–1. - Councilmember Bass moved to add grounds for recall: incompetency, official misconduct, or malfeasance. Motion passed 6–1. - Outcome: The charter will be amended to (1) give the city secretary five business days to issue recall petition blanks, and (2) require that recall petitions allege incompetency, official misconduct, or malfeasance. Other changes were rejected. 6. Judicial Removal of Elected Officials - Proposal: Adopt state-law provisions allowing a citizen to petition a district court for removal of an elected official on grounds of incompetence, misconduct, or intoxication. - Councilmember Bass moved to reject. - Motion passed 6–1. - Outcome: No charter amendment; the existing recall process remains the only removal method. Key Outcomes - Approved (to be on ballot): Initiative and referendum changes; recall procedure changes (five-day extension for city secretary and added grounds). - Rejected: Amendments on council investigations (moved to governing standards), candidate filing fees, change order briefings, and judicial removal. - Adjournment: The council adjourned after the final vote (motion passed 4–3).

The Killeen Public Facility Corporation (PFC) met on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 10:01 PM following the regular and special city council meetings. All directors were present except Council Member Nash-King. The meeting covered agenda approval, minutes approval, election of officers, a presentation on the Avanti Legacy Parkview senior housing project, and an update on the NRP North Killeen Apartments project. Consent Calendar - Agenda Approval: The agenda was approved unanimously (6-0) after a motion by Council Member Brown and a second by Council Member Kimble to switch the order of items PFC-26-03 and PFC-26-04. - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the June 17, 2025, PFC meeting (PFC-26-01) were approved unanimously (6-0) on a motion by Council Member Brown, seconded by Council Member Kimble. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak. Discussion Items - PFC-26-02: Election of Officers – Mayor Solomon moved to elect Council Member Kendrick as President, overriding his remaining one-year term as Vice President. The motion carried 5-1. A subsequent motion by Mayor Pro Tem Gonzalez nominated Council Member Brown as Vice President, Kent Cagle as Assistant Secretary, Michelle Lawler as Secretary, and Judith Tangalin as Treasurer. After a correction to swap secretary and assistant secretary roles, the motion carried 6-0. - PFC-26-04: Avanti Legacy Parkview Update – Henry Flores Sr., President of Met House Development, presented an update on the 108-unit senior (55+) housing project at 101 N. College Street. Key details: - 100 affordable units (20 at 30% AMI, 20 at 50% AMI, 60 at 60% AMI) and 8 market-rate units. - Total project cost: $25 million, with $18 million from federal tax credit equity. - Sample rents (after utility allowance): one-bedroom at 30% AMI = $410; at 50% AMI = $719; at 60% AMI = $873; market-rate one-bedroom = $1,080. - A commercial kitchen on the first floor is leased to Hill Country Community Action Agency for $1/year, enabling a local Meals on Wheels program expected to produce 100,000 meals annually. - Current occupancy: 73 units (63%), with 22 approved move-ins; projected 100% occupancy in 60 days. - Utilities included except electricity; property managed by Asset Living. - Council Members Gonzalez, Brown, and Williams expressed support and appreciation for the project. - PFC-26-03: NRP North Killeen Apartments Update – City staff presented slides in the absence of Mr. Parker from NRP Group. Key points: - Current occupancy: 91.85% overall; PFC units 90%; market-rate units 92.8%. - Average in-place rent: PFC units $1,283; market-rate units $1,680. - Initial benefits received: $350,000 origination fee and $82,000 for Condor Park improvements. Future benefits (sales commission $250,000 and 8% cash flow) are anticipated after an initial sale, according to the presentation. - Council Member Bryan raised concerns that the original agreement stipulated cash flow upon leasing, not after sale, and noted no cash flow has been received despite high occupancy. She also questioned the use of the $350,000, which staff indicated was spent on local businesses; the PFC fund currently holds only a few thousand dollars from a billboard lease ($1,600/year). Council Member Bryan requested detailed documentation on the cash flow terms and fund expenditures. Key Outcomes - Officers elected: Council Member Kendrick as President, Council Member Brown as Vice President, and staff positions confirmed. - Presentation on Avanti Legacy Parkview received; project praised and acknowledged for its affordability and community benefits. - Concerns raised regarding the NRP North Killeen Apartments cash flow agreement; staff directed to provide clarification on original terms and fund usage to the board.

On June 16, 2026, the Killeen City Council held a special meeting at City Hall to discuss the proposed 30-day citizen comment period for the Program Year (PY) 2026-27 Annual Action Plan, which describes the use of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME), and HOME-American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP) funds. Mayor Joseph Solomon called the meeting to order at 6:26 p.m. All council members were present except Councilmember Debbie Nash-King. The agenda was approved by a 6-0 vote. Agenda Approval - Councilmember Kimmel moved to approve the agenda, seconded by Councilmember Kendrick. The motion carried 6-0. Public Hearing: PY 2026-27 Annual Action Plan - Staff member Ms. McNeil presented an overview of the entitlement funds and the required citizen participation process. - The city received 99 survey responses (up from just under 50 the previous year) during a public survey held February 11 – March 4, 2026. - CDBG entitlement for PY 2026 (FY 2027) is $1,437,398, with $66,637.94 in reprogrammed funds. Public services are capped at 15% of the annual entitlement. - HOME entitlement was reported as $585,207 (transcript reads "585,2077"). - Applications: 9 public service applications were received, 8 recommended for funding, and 1 was rescinded. For CDBG (housing, infrastructure, code enforcement, parks), 5 applications were received, 4 recommended, and there is one forward funding commitment for code enforcement officers. HOME received 4 applications with 1 recommended; HOME-ARP received 2 applications with 2 recommended. - The proposed comment period is June 22 – July 28, 2026, extended by one week from the originally noticed July 21 end date. Comments may be submitted via public hearings, in writing, or by email to communitydevelopment@killeentexas.gov. - The draft action plan will be available at five city facilities and online. Next steps: the public hearing and comment period conclude on July 28; council will vote to accept, reject, or modify funding recommendations; the plan is due to HUD by August 15; and the program year begins October 1. - Council questions: Mayor Pro Tem asked about the $500,000 or 28% allocated for acquisition/development of non-congregate shelters. Ms. McNeil explained the difference between congregate and non-congregate shelters, noting the latter provide private rooms/bathrooms/kitchens to protect vulnerable populations during pandemics. Councilmember Brown sought a comparison to existing shelters, and Ms. McNeil noted similarities to family units in a domestic violence shelter, though without full kitchens. Public Comments & Testimony - Anna Luisa Carrillo Tapia, speaking on behalf of the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), raised concerns about galvanized pipes containing lead in residents' homes. She said notices sent to residents lack proper addressing and are not provided in Spanish, causing confusion. She asked the city to use CDBG funds to assist needy families, particularly on the north side of Killeen, and to improve communication with non-English-speaking residents. She also urged the city to reach out to families proactively, not only when bills are due. - In response, staff confirmed that written comments for the record would be accepted via email and that comments would be shared with the council before the July 28 meeting. Staff noted that the water notice does contain a reference to a Spanish translation resource. Key Outcomes - The agenda was approved 6-0. - The public hearing was opened and closed. No formal vote was taken on the Annual Action Plan or the comment period dates. - Staff will provide any written comments to council members a few days before the July 28 public hearing. - The meeting adjourned after the hearing.

The Killeen City Council convened on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 3:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included a work session (discussion of agenda items 2–11) and a regular session covering consent items, public hearings, and discussion items. The meeting lasted until approximately 9:00 PM, with a recess for a scheduled CDBG meeting. All council members were present except Councilmember Nash-King. Consent Calendar - MN-26-019: Minutes of the May 19, 2026 regular meeting approved unanimously. - RS-26-093: Authorization to accept FAA Airport Improvement Program (AIP) and Airport Infrastructure Grant (AIG) for terminal rehabilitation at Killeen Regional Airport (total grant value $3.5 million, no city cost). - RS-26-094: Approval of Quick Roofing TIPS contract 25010402 for Lions Club Park Senior Center roof repair ($172,367.33, 20-year warranty, completion by late August 2026). - RS-26-095: Renewal of group medical and pharmaceutical benefits with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas and dental with MetLife, effective October 1, 2026 (premium increases: $5/month for medical tiers, 6% for dental). - RS-26-096: Award of RFP 26-23 for liability, property, and workers’ compensation insurance to TML-IRP ($3,100,016, effective October 1, 2026). - RS-26-097: Declaration of vacancy on Civil Service Commission (due to Councilmember Kimble's election) and appointment of Dirk Davis by city manager. - RS-26-098: Approval of TASB BuyBoard purchase for Animal Shelter stray dog kennel HVAC replacement from Southland Industries ($146,500, completion by mid-July 2026). - RS-26-099: Approval of Quick Roofing TIPS contract for Copper Mountain Branch Library roof replacement ($179,856.22, covered by insurance after hail damage determination, 20-year warranty, similar schedule to senior center). - RS-26-100: Appointment of two members to the Board of Adjustment: James D. Frey (regular, construction experience) and Ricky K. Williams (alternate). Public Comments & Testimony - Michael Fernino: Criticized city spending priorities, citing underfunded code enforcement, inflated event attendance numbers, and questioned $20 million in unaccounted septic system funds. - Gwendolyn Everett: Expressed strong support for the proposed children's museum and immersion center, emphasizing benefits for Killeen's diverse and military-connected families. - Dr. Sue Necy Croft: Questioned the benefits of the drainage utility fee, stating that roadway expansions altered natural drainage on her property, causing tree loss and $116 in tree removal costs. She requested a process for reviewing unintended impacts. - Karen Kitt Chapman: Spoke against individual program fees for seniors, advocating for a low universal membership fee. Cited experience running a senior center in Spokane. - Patsy Bracey: Urged council to adopt a universal senior membership fee rather than per-class fees, noting many seniors live on fixed incomes and rely on the senior center for meals. - Michael Fornino: Argued that seniors should pay for services they use, suggesting a tiered fee structure. He noted that many seniors benefit from tax exemptions and pensions. - Lane Carter: No specific comment transcribed. - Donald Smith and Cecil Adams (during public hearing on cell tower): Spoke in favor of the proposed tower, citing future growth and improved 911 call reliability. Discussion Items - Fiscal Year 2027 Fee Schedule (PH-26-018): Staff presented proposed changes, including a universal senior center membership fee ($115/year residents, $130 non-residents) replacing individual program fees, and a $21 brush collection fee. After extensive debate, council voted to adopt the fee schedule with the senior center membership fee, a reduced brush fee of $10, and to postpone animal services fee changes until July 7, 2026. - FY 2027 Budget Preview (DS-26-048): City Manager presented an overview highlighting a 59% increase in electricity costs, a proposed 2-cent property tax rate increase (to $72.15 per $100 valuation), a 3% COLA for eligible employees, and a 5% water / 3% sewer rate increase. The disabled veterans exemption (DV) increased by $223 million, while new construction added only $137 million. No increase in solid waste or drainage fees was recommended. - Quarterly Financial Report (DS-26-041): As of March 31, 2026, the city's overall turnover rate was 17.82% (247 resignations out of 1,386 employees). General fund revenues were 68% of budget, expenditures 47%. Water and sewer fund balance $9.9 million, solid waste $6.9 million, drainage $1.8 million, aviation $3.3 million. No red flags identified. - Killeen Children’s Museum and Immersion Center Plan of Action (DS-26-049): Staff presented research on partnership models, potential locations (409 Gray Street, Anthem Park, etc.), and funding strategies. Council directed staff to organize a stakeholder meeting and bring back a report by January 19, 2027. - Review of Governing Standards (DS-26-050): Council discussed multiple amendments: (1) adopted staff recommendations to update election-date references and add Board of Adjustment subcommittee; (2) approved allowing citizens to speak on non-agenda items in a separate section (4-2 vote); (3) approved allowing citizen participation via Zoom (4-2 vote); (4) motion to change meeting schedule to work sessions on first/third Tuesdays and regular meetings on second/fourth Tuesdays failed (3-4); (5) all other amendments tabled to July 7, 2026. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously (6-0) with noted nominations. - Fee Schedule (PH-26-018): Adopted with amendments: senior center membership fee ($115 resident, $130 non-resident) replacing program fees; brush collection fee reduced from $21 to $10; animal services fees tabled to July 7, 2026. - Cell Tower Conditional Use Permit (PH-26-019): Postponed to July 7, 2026, after motion to approve was withdrawn and a postponement motion passed 6-0. - Budget Preview and Quarterly Report: Received as information; no formal vote required. - Children’s Museum: Motion of direction passed 6-0 to hold a stakeholder meeting and report back by January 19, 2027. - Governing Standards: - Staff updates (election date, board appointments) adopted 5-1. - Citizen comments on non-agenda items allowed in a separate section (4-2). - Citizen participation via Zoom/teleconference approved (4-2). - Motion to change meeting frequency failed (3-4). - All remaining amendments tabled to July 7, 2026 (6-0).

The Killeen City Council met in special session at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 101 N. College Street. All council members were present, with Councilmember Charles Kimball participating via Zoom. The council approved the agenda 7–0, heard citizen comments, and discussed changing the time of upcoming special meetings and a series of proposed charter amendments. The meeting adjourned before completing all scheduled charter-review items. Public Comments & Testimony - Anka Niagu: Expressed support for restoring non-agenda citizen comments, arguing their removal was intended to silence citizens. She said criticism should be accepted and that council members who cannot take criticism should not serve. She also raised a practical question about limiting speakers if 50 people show up. - Michael Fernino: Called the proposal to change special meeting times a “bonehead idea” and suggested it was an attempt to make meetings less accessible. He advocated for judicial removal of elected officials, resign-to-run for offices outside the city, and council-initiated investigations, citing his attendance at charter review committee meetings. - James Sills: Urged the council to restore non-agenda citizen comments and put that right in the charter so it could not be removed at the council’s whim. He criticized reliance on email as an inadequate substitute for listening to citizens and noted that only three council members acknowledged his June 3 email. - Dr. Sue Neasy Croft: Asked for a cross-reference document mapping each proposed charter amendment to the specific article/section of the charter, the current language, the proposed change, and rationale. She requested this matrix before the next special meeting and said her purpose was transparency, not support or opposition. - Leo Gukizen: Spoke as a charter review committee member. He supported the committee’s recommendations, including putting non-agenda citizen comments in the charter, requiring the city manager to brief council on change orders in open session, and requiring resignation when running for another office. He cautioned the council not to “butcher” the recommendations to meet personal opinions. Discussion Items DS-26-046: Changing Time for Special Meetings - Staff asked the council to confirm the 5:00 p.m. time for special meetings scheduled on June 22, 2026, July 14, 2026, and July 28, 2026. - Councilmember Kimball supported keeping 5:00 p.m., noting citizens cannot participate during work hours. Councilmember Brown suggested 5:30 p.m. to improve access. Councilmember Williams agreed with 5:00 p.m. Mayor Pro Tem Gonzalez supported 5:00 or 5:30 and suggested a 10:00 p.m. cap for productivity. Councilmember Nash-King noted that meeting length is driven by council behavior, not citizen comments. - Consensus: Keep the special meetings at 5:00 p.m. DS-26-047: Charter Amendments The council discussed five of the eleven proposed charter amendments. A staff presenter described current charter provisions, Charter Review Committee recommendations, and comparative language from other cities. The council took the following actions: 1. Election Dates - The committee recommended aligning the charter with the council’s December 19, 2025 resolution moving all regular elections to the November uniform election date in odd-numbered years, requiring changes to Sections 22 and 93. - Discussion included concerns about staggering terms and the prohibition on November elections in even-numbered years. Councilmember Nash-King favored two-year terms; Councilmember Brown said voters should decide. - Motion to accept the amendment as proposed passed 5–2. 2. Term Limits - Current charter limits officials to three consecutive two-year terms per office but no total limit. The committee recommended a cap of six consecutive terms in any combination of offices, followed by a one-term wait. - Councilmember Bass said he trusts voters and opposed the change. Councilmember Nash-King recommended keeping current language. Councilmember Kendrick moved to reject the recommendation, seconded by Nash-King. - The motion to reject passed 6–1, so the term-limit amendment will not appear on the ballot. Councilmember Brown voted in opposition. 3. Resign-to-Run - Current charter requires resignation when filing for a different city office, but not for outside offices. The committee recommended applying the requirement only to outside offices. - A motion by Councilmember Brown to accept the committee recommendation failed for lack of a second. - Councilmember Nash-King then moved to remove the resign-to-run provision entirely, allowing officials to continue serving while running for any office, with immediate resignation upon winning. The motion passed 7–0 and will go on the ballot. 4. Filling Vacancies on City Council - Current charter requires appointment for a single vacancy occurring more than 90 days before an election, allows appointment within 90 days, and requires a special election if two or more vacancies occur. The committee recommended all vacancies be filled by appointment, with a special election only if a quorum no longer exists. - Councilmember Nash-King moved to accept the recommendation, seconded by Bass. Councilmember Brown proposed an amendment capping appointments at two per two-year term; the amendment failed 4–3. - The original motion to accept the committee recommendation then passed 6–1, placing the vacancy-appointment amendment on the ballot. 5. Council-Initiated Investigations - Section 39 of the charter already authorizes council investigations and subpoenas. The committee recommended adding a requirement that the council adopt an ordinance establishing investigation procedures. - Several councilmembers argued procedures would be better placed in governing standards. Councilmember Nash-King strongly opposed the change as overreach. Councilmember Brown moved to accept the recommendation but strike the “by ordinance” requirement, so the charter would simply say the council shall provide procedures. - After procedural votes, Councilmember Nash-King successfully amended the motion to specify that procedures be provided through governing standards rather than ordinance. The amendment passed 6–1. - The final motion as amended was declared carried by the mayor, though the transcript contains confusion about the vote count. The amended language would require the council to provide investigation procedures through its governing standards and would go to voters in November. Key Outcomes - The agenda was approved 7–0. - Upcoming special meetings will remain at 5:00 p.m. - Election-date charter amendment approved for the November ballot (5–2). - Term-limit amendment rejected (6–1). - Resign-to-run removal approved for the November ballot (7–0). - Vacancy-appointment amendment approved for the November ballot (6–1); a two-appointment cap amendment failed (4–3). - Council-investigation procedures amendment approved for the November ballot (declared carried; vote count not clearly recorded). - The meeting adjourned on a motion by Councilmember Brown before considering the remaining charter amendments—candidate filing fees, initiative/referendum requirements, recall procedures, judicial removal of elected officials, citizen comment period, and change-order briefings by the city manager.