Public Meetings - Killeen, Texas

Overview The Killeen City Council held a special meeting on January 6, 2026, immediately following the regular city council meeting. The sole agenda item was a public hearing and consideration of an ordinance to authorize a substantial amendment to the Annual Action Plan for Program Year 2025-2026, reprogramming Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds from the Reunification Center Project to the Rosa Hereford Community Center and Senior Wing and the Killeen Community Center Ballpark Water Reuse Irrigation System Project, totaling $1,349,445.69. Public Hearing - The public hearing was opened by the Mayor. Staff presented the proposal, noting that in summer 2025, council directed suspension of the reunification center project. Two sources of funding existed; $49,000 had been spent. The Community Development Advisory Committee (CDAC) recommended in November 2025 to reprogram the funds: $349,445.69 for kitchen appliances, furniture, and IT at the Rosa Hereford Community Center, and $1,000,000 for design and construction of a new reuse water supply at the Killeen Community Center ballpark. No citizen comments were received during the comment period. If approved, the amendment would be submitted to HUD by January 16, 2026, and an update on the reunification center project would be presented on January 20. Public Comments - Melissa Brown, a member of the public, spoke against the proposal. She argued that the council was rushing to a decision for a project that would not qualify, that the irrigation system was not in the CIP or parks master plan, and that the council had predetermined the outcome. She questioned the use of CDBG funds to reimburse expenses already approved, and noted that citizens in District 1 face water line contamination issues and cannot afford repairs. She suggested either keeping the funds for the reunification center or allocating them to a better use, and opposed using the funds for ballpark irrigation that would charge families fees. Discussion and Vote - Councilmember Solomon made a motion to approve PH-26-001, seconded by Councilmember Alvarez. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0. (All council members present including Councilmember Cobb via Zoom.) Key Outcomes - The ordinance was approved, authorizing the substantial amendment to reprogram CDBG funds as recommended. - The amendment will be submitted to HUD by January 16, 2026. - Staff will provide an update on the reunification center project at the January 20, 2026 council meeting.

The Killeen City Council convened on January 6, 2026, at 3:00 PM in the Council Chambers for a combined work session and regular session. The meeting began with an invocation, pledge of allegiance, and approval of the agenda (7-0). Presentations included the Killeen Star Award and a check donation from Sister Cities. The consent agenda, comprising 18 items, was approved unanimously. Two discussion items were considered: the Killeen Children’s Museum and Immersion Center initiative and a request for proposal (RFP) for the original Fire Station 1 on Avenue D. Citizen comments addressed the museum, street naming for Bettie Ann McLaurin, and a critical remark about a council member. The council also voted to explore honoring McLaurin’s legacy. Consent Calendar - Minutes of November 18, 2025, December 2, 2025 (regular and special) were approved. - RS-26-001: Purchase of library books from Ingram Library Services via TXSMARTBUY for $155,000 (FY2026). - RS-26-002: HVAC maintenance and repairs through The Brandt Companies for $272,759 (FY2026). - RS-26-003: Award of demolition contract for the original airline terminal at Skylark Field Airport to R&L Global Inc. for $168,750 (lowest of seven bids). - RS-26-004: Letter of agreement with Rice Inspection, Inc. for construction inspection on Lift Station No. 6 rehabilitation for $161,688. - RS-26-005: Professional services agreement with Garver, LLC for design of reuse water system for Community Center Park for $151,908. - RS-26-006 and RS-26-007: Interlocal agreements with Central Texas Council of Governments ($25,000 grant) and City of Harker Heights ($5,000 contribution) for the Household Hazardous Waste Event on April 11, 2026 (476 cars served in FY2025). - RS-26-008: Authorization to apply for a $467,000 Bullet-Resistant Components for Law Enforcement Vehicles Grant (no match required). - RS-26-009: Purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE) from NAFECO for $234,652.80 (46 complete sets plus extras). - RS-26-010: Inspection, cleaning, and repair of PPE through Lion Total Care for $106,407.90. - RS-26-011: Purchase of self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) from MES Life Safety ($3,012,625.15) and a mobile air compressor trailer from August Industries ($222,639.90). - RS-26-012: Appointment of members to the Board of Adjustment (9 regular members, 2 alternates). - OR-26-001: Ordinance amending itinerant vendor regulations (exempts food trucks with state licenses and city event vendors; adds services to door-to-door sales). - OR-26-002: Ordinance updating special event permitting (tiered structure, insurance requirements, recurring event provision, 48-hour emergency application). - OR-26-003: Ordinance amending solid waste code (new fees: $10 container relocation, $75 commercial premium service, $20 mattress/box spring disposal, prohibited recycling items). Public Comments & Testimony - Michael Fornino: Criticized Councilmember Cobb’s attendance and responsiveness, questioned her ability to represent District 3, and cited Chapter 87 of the Local Government Code. Was ruled out of order for not addressing an agenda item. - Gwendolyn Everett: Supported the children’s museum and immersion center, citing early literacy benefits and economic impact examples from Houston, El Paso, and Denver. - Gregory Moore: Supported the museum, noting the decline of public broadcasting and the need for hands-on learning. - Larry Robison: Supported renaming a street after Bettie Ann McLaurin, praising her community service. - Tyrone McLaren: Shared personal story of support from the McLaurin family after a tragedy and urged council to honor her legacy. - Charles Shores: Advocated for the street renaming, highlighting McLaurin’s philanthropic work (over $5.2 million given to nonprofits). - Carolyn Duggar: Educator for 46 years, supported the museum as a way to improve literacy and community engagement. - Sandra Minor: Supported the museum as a way to revive library use and provide children with interactive learning. Discussion Items - DS-26-001 – Killeen Children’s Museum and Immersion Center Initiative: Councilmember Gonzalez presented a proposal to explore a public-private partnership integrating a children’s museum with the children’s public library. She noted that nearly 50% of Texas kindergartners are not on track for reading by third grade, and that the state allocated $8.5 billion through HB2 for education. The proposed plan includes a phased 2–5 year roadmap, emphasis on District 1, partnership with Killeen ISD, and grant/philanthropic funding. Councilmember Cobb expressed concern about competing priorities (homeless shelter, infrastructure) but supported exploration. A motion to direct staff to develop a coordinated plan and return with a preliminary report in June 2026 passed 7-0. - DS-26-002 – Original Fire Station 1 (Avenue D) RFP: Councilmember Alvarez proposed issuing an RFP to sell or lease the vacant fire station to a private entity, similar to the Southern Roots Brewing project, to return it to the tax rolls and generate revenue. Staff confirmed preliminary work had been done. Motion to create an RFP passed 7-0. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously (7-0). - Motion to explore the Children’s Museum and Immersion Center (direct staff to develop plan, report by June 2026) passed 7-0. - Motion to issue an RFP for the Avenue D Fire Station passed 7-0. - Motion to explore honoring Bettie Ann McLaurin (street naming or similar) passed 7-0. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 7:00 PM.

The Killeen City Council held a special meeting on December 19, 2025, at 1:00 PM to consider Resolution RS-25-193, which would change the city's general elections from the May uniform election date to the November uniform election date in odd-numbered years, as authorized by Senate Bill 1494. The deadline for such a decision is December 31, 2025. After public testimony and council discussion, the council adopted an amended version (Option 3) by a 7-0 vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Ricky Williams: Expressed support for moving elections to November to increase turnout, but recommended implementation after the May 2026 election to avoid disrupting the current cycle. - Otetiani: Supported a uniform election date to streamline the voting process and encourage participation. - Kristen Wright (Founder, Killeen Creators): Strongly supported the change, citing three reasons: cost savings (hundreds of thousands of dollars), increased voter access for disenfranchised residents, and more equitable representation. She noted that May elections in Killeen have had turnout below 1% of the population. - Guff Kysen: Supported moving to November but recommended Option 3 (delaying implementation until after May 2026). He criticized the timing of the meeting and questioned why the item was not brought up earlier. - Brandy L. Elbert: Supported moving elections to November after the May 2026 election, citing the May 2025 turnout of only 1.92% of the population (3,994 votes out of 160,616) and potential cost savings of $47,595. - Unnamed senior citizen: Opposed the change, stating that young people do not vote and that the decision should favor senior citizens. - Cameron Cochrane: Opposed the resolution, arguing that changing the election date requires a charter amendment voted on by the people, not a council resolution. He cited Killeen City Charter Sections 94 and 149. - Mr. Fernino: Strongly opposed, accusing the council of poor planning and holding the meeting at a time designed to limit public attendance. He argued Option 4 (no change) was best and criticized the potential for extended terms. - Kim Wickerson: Supported moving elections to November to increase turnout and reduce barriers for working families, seniors, and military households. - Dennis Faulkner (Precinct Committeeman, West Side Conservative Coalition): Supported moving to November but urged minimal impact, recommending Option 3 to stay within the city charter and avoid term extensions. - Louis Minor: Supported the change, noting that November elections allow countywide voting and would improve turnout (8,501 voters in November vs. 3,095 in last May election). - Mr. Davison: Opposed the change, calling it "left-handed politics" and stating that the voters should decide. - Mr. Blair: Expressed skepticism, saying the only justifications are cost savings or that voters are not smart; he opposed changing before the May election. - Salon Chummel: Supported moving to November odd-year elections, citing cost savings, increased turnout, and the risk of waiting another 10+ years for a similar opportunity. - Amelia Raybroker: Supported the resolution, noting benefits for military families, cost savings, and higher turnout in November odd-year elections. - Mrs. Wheelbanks: Opposed Option 2 (immediate change with term extensions) and supported Option 3 or 4, arguing that extending terms by 18 months for at-large members and 6 months for district members undermines democracy. - Mr. Wheelbanks: Opposed Option 2, criticizing the rushed process and lack of charter review. He argued that SB 1494 was designed for Dallas and does not fit Killeen's staggered terms. - McKella Gray (Mikhail Gray): Strongly supported Option 2, stating that democracy works best with higher turnout and that the change is about people, not officeholders. Discussion Items - City Attorney Clemens presented background and four options: - Option 1: Keep even-year elections in May, move odd-year elections to November (still two different dates). - Option 2: Move all elections to November odd-numbered years, eliminating staggered terms and extending current terms via holdover (at-large members extended 18 months, district members 6 months). - Option 3: Same as Option 2 but delayed to a future odd-year (e.g., 2027 or 2029), allowing time for a charter review and election, and preserving the May 2026 election. - Option 4: No change. - The attorney noted that SB 1494 was written for cities like Dallas with only odd-year elections, so Killeen's staggered system creates complications. She recommended a future charter review if any option is adopted. - Council members discussed the implications: - Councilman Segarra asked about the effect on KISD and CTC; the attorney could not confirm the impact on CTC. - Councilman Solomon questioned whether a charter review should come first, but noted the Dec 31 deadline. - Councilman Adams made an initial motion for Option 2. - Mayor Pro Tem Adams then moved to amend the motion to Option 3 (conduct May 2026 election, move all subsequent elections to November beginning 2027). - Councilwoman Gonzalez confirmed that term extensions under Option 2 are authorized by state law and temporary. She noted that nationwide odd-year November elections see 5–25% turnout increases. - Councilman Alvarez clarified that under Option 3, at-large members elected in May 2026 would have a shortened term (re-election in Nov 2027), while district members would see a 6-month extension via holdover. - The amendment to Option 3 passed 6-1 (Councilwoman Cobb opposed). The final amended motion then passed 7-0. Key Outcomes - Resolution adopted as amended (Option 3): The city will conduct the May 2026 election as scheduled. Thereafter, all general elections for mayor and council members will be held on the November uniform election date in odd-numbered years, beginning November 2027. Elections in even-numbered years will be eliminated. - Next steps: The council recommends a future charter review and election to align the city charter with the new election schedule. If a charter amendment fails, the resolution will still supersede the charter unless the council repeals it before 2027. - Votes: Amendment to Option 3 passed 6-1; final resolution passed 7-0.

The Killeen City Council met on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 3:00 PM in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 101 N. College Street. The meeting began with invocation and pledge, proceeded through a work session to review upcoming agenda items, heard citizen comments, and then took action on a consent agenda, a public hearing, and received a parks master plan update. All votes taken during the regular session were 5-0 in favor. Consent Calendar - Approved the meeting agenda by a 5-0 vote. - RS-25-190 (VOCA Grant): Accepted a Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) 2026 Crisis Assistance Program grant through the Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division. The grant award is $79,901.60, with a 20% city match of $19,975.40, for a total project amount of $99,877. Funds will support the crime victims clerk, professional counseling, emergency financial assistance, and temporary shelter services. - RS-25-191 (Utility Billing Outsourcing): Authorized an agreement with Info Send, Inc. (RFP 25-37) for utility bill print and mail outsourcing in the annual amount of $479,016.00. The city processes approximately 55,000 water utility accounts, generating 38,000–40,000 regular bills, 11,000–15,000 e-bills, and 11,000–14,000 delinquent notices monthly. The outsourcing is projected to save about $7,000 annually while improving bill presentation and expanding e-bill inserts. - RS-25-192 (Roof Replacement): Authorized an agreement with Quick Roofing under TIPS Contract 25010401 for roof replacement at the Killeen Arts and Activities Center, Building G, in the amount of $181,126.32. The work is tied to an insurance claim and will be funded through a FY26 budget amendment with insurance proceeds. Public Comments & Testimony - Michael Fanino (appearing during both citizen comments and the public hearing) opposed the utility billing outsourcing, citing concerns about data security, potential delivery delays from out-of-state processing, and unclear savings. He also opposed the PUD amendment, arguing that increased density would strain city services, and alleged a conflict of interest regarding an absent council member's family connection to the development. - Melissa Brown opposed the utility outsourcing, stating that after accounting for retained equipment and personnel costs, the change would add approximately $25,512 per year rather than save money, and she raised privacy questions about payment information. She also opposed the PUD amendment, noting that many nearby residents were not notified, that the lot-size reductions contradict resident preferences, and that the plan segregates amenities by separating the dog park from the playground. - Chris Dosey (Front Rock Builders, applicant) spoke in favor of the PUD amendment, stating that the negotiated plan increases density by about 7% and puts approximately 100 more homes within reach of affordability while maintaining the PUD's quality standards. - Two written responses in opposition to the PUD amendment were received from surrounding property owners (314 notified). Discussion Items - Work Session Review (Items 2–5): City staff presented details on the VOCA grant, utility billing outsourcing, roof replacement, and the PUD amendment. No formal action was taken during the work session. For the PUD amendment (PH-25-075), staff planner Wallace Mesher explained that the amendment would add 73 residential lots and 71 dwelling units to The Preserve at Thousand Oaks, changing the density from 3.04 to 3.22 units per acre. The amendment introduces a new 45-foot-wide lot option (minimum 4,500 sq ft), converts roughly two-thirds of the 60-foot lot area to 45/50-foot lots, and about half of the 50-foot lot area to 45-foot lots. Park changes include reducing dog parks from two to one and replacing one large pavilion with three smaller ones. The Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval 3-1, with Commissioner Sabrie opposed due to traffic concerns. - DS-25-056 (Parks Master Plan Progress Update): Parks and Recreation Director Antonio Murphy presented a three-year progress report. Key statistics: park acreage increased from 508 to 610 acres (101 acres added); trail mileage grew from 8.9 to 11.13 miles; 145 trees planted; 7 of 10 parks rated poor/fair were improved, with planning for the remaining 3; 19 of 23 moderate/adequate parks improved. Highlights include renovations at Condor Park, Long Branch (new pool house, pickleball courts), Lions Club Park, and others. The city has secured sponsorships: $1.26 million from First National Bank Texas (7-year term with renewal options) and $375,000 from Zenner for the family aquatic center. Parkland dedication ordinance has yielded 103 acres of dedicated parkland. Partnerships include MOUs with KISD and the Armed Forces YMCA. Council questions addressed future park needs (director estimated at least 5–10 additional parks over 10–15 years), trail connectivity, and recreation center needs (estimated initial need for 3 strategically located facilities). Key Outcomes - The consent agenda (items RS-25-190, RS-25-191, RS-25-192) was approved 5-0. - Ordinance PH-25-075, amending the Planned Unit Development for The Preserve at Thousand Oaks, was approved 5-0. - The parks master plan update was informational; next steps include a town hall meeting on January 12, 2026, to discuss therapeutic recreation and inclusion, and continued planning for improvements at Hunt Club, Camacho, and Santa Rosa parks.

The Killeen Planning and Zoning Commission held a workshop at 4:00 p.m. and a regular meeting at 5:00 p.m. on December 8, 2025, in the Utility Collections Large Conference Room. The commission considered seven public hearings, including a future land use map amendment, four rezoning requests, and two conditional use permits. Commissioners also made appointments to the Heritage Preservation Board and Traffic Impact Analysis Appeals Board, and cancelled the December 22, 2025 regular meeting. Attendance: Commissioners Purifoy, Giacomozzi, Cooper, O’Brien, and Rowe were present; Commissioners Ellis, Jones, Moss, and Sabree were absent. Public Comments & Testimony - PH2 (Rezone 15.3 acres to R-1): Several residents spoke in opposition. Sue Hallmark, an adjacent resident of 51 years, opposed the density, citing concerns about drainage, traffic on Cunningham Road, and loss of wildlife. A second resident at 5301 Cunningham Road opposed due to flooding and lack of a flood survey, stating the development would push water onto neighbors. Heather McGailly (via phone) called the staff’s 58% opposition estimate “BS,” noted that Love Spur is a single paved driveway, and argued that the request should have been for larger lots (SR1, SR2, or AR1) to match the character. Harley Aguilar, a retired Army soldier, raised traffic concerns on Cunningham Road and noted that previous council disapproval was ignored. Another resident said opposition from surrounding properties is essentially 100% outside the landowner and requested disapproval or modification to larger lot sizes. Melissa Brown presented a video of flooding in the area, argued that R1 could allow 3,000 sq ft lots under Senate Bill 15, leading to 180–225 homes, and recommended AR1 or SR1 zoning to fit the neighborhood character. - PH4 (Rezone to B-5): Melissa Brown opposed the higher intensity use, stating that B5 allows many uses (e.g., mechanic shops, car dealerships) that would increase traffic on Onion Road, which is a rural road where horses travel. She recommended disapproval. - PH5 (Rezone 97.13 acres to R-1): Melissa Brown opposed, noting the property has no direct access to major roads until the city builds the $12 million Mohawk connection, and that all traffic would funnel through existing neighborhoods. She recommended disapproval until a PUD with proper ingress/egress is in place. Discussion Items - Public Hearing 1 – FLUM Amendment (FLUM25-06): Request by Clear Creek Commercial, Ltd. to change 1.81 acres from Regional Commercial to Residential Mix at 5201 West Stan Schlueter Loop. Staff notified 10 surrounding owners; zero responses received. Staff recommended approval. The applicant spoke in favor. No public testimony. Motion to approve carried unanimously. - Public Hearing 2 – Rezone 15.3 acres from A to R-1 (Case Z25-37): Request by 5011CunninghamRd Killeen, LLC for land on Cunningham Road. Staff noted the site’s history: a previous PUD request was denied by city council in May 2025, and a subsequent R-1 request was withdrawn. Under House Bill 24 (effective Sept 1, 2025), a protest requires 60% of owners within 200 ft to require a 3/4 council vote; staff estimated opposition at 58%. R-1 zoning could yield 112 lots (5 units/acre) or up to 225 lots under small lot provisions (8–10 units/acre). The applicant’s representative, Joseph Terry, stated the density is similar to previous proposals and that drainage will tie into existing infrastructure. After extensive public opposition, Commissioner Cooper moved to approve with an amendment to SR1 (single-family residential with 8,400 sq ft minimum lots). The applicant’s representative indicated SR1 might be feasible but needed to consult the owner. The motion to approve as SR1 was seconded and passed (no objection noted). The final recommendation is approval of the rezoning to SR1. - Public Hearing 3 – Rezone 0.14 acres from R-1 to SF-2 (Case Z25-39): Request at 802 Highland Avenue to allow construction of a single-family home on a remnant lot. Staff notified 47 properties; zero responses. Applicant’s representative spoke in favor. No public testimony. Motion to approve carried unanimously. - Public Hearing 4 – Rezone 1.313 acres from B-2 to B-5 (Case Z25-40): Request at 4801 Onion Road. Staff recommended approval. The applicant’s representative stated the intended use is a salon suite. Commissioner Cooper moved to disapprove, citing B-5’s broader uses and traffic concerns; the motion failed (1-4? Actually the record says ‘failed motion’). Commissioner Giacomozzi then moved to approve as presented, seconded by Commissioner Rowe. The vote was 3-1 in favor (Commissioner Cooper opposed). - Public Hearing 5 – Rezone 97.13 acres from A to R-1 (Case Z25-41): Request near Yates Road. Staff estimated a yield of 365 lots (based on concept plan) but noted that under state law lots could be as small as 3,000 sq ft, yielding up to 777–971 lots. Park dedication fees estimated at $438,000. The applicant’s representative spoke in favor. Commissioner Rowe moved to approve as presented, seconded. Discussion included concerns about road access: staff stated the subdivision plat would need to show a connection to Mohawk Drive (future city bond project). The motion passed 3-1 (Commissioner Cooper opposed citing safety with limited egress). - Public Hearing 6 – Conditional Use Permit for Alcohol (Case Z25-42): Request at 1417 West Stan Schlueter Loop to rezone from B-5 to B-5 with CUP for on-premises alcohol sales in a nail salon. Staff recommended approval. Applicant’s representative presented. No public testimony. Motion to approve unanimously. - Public Hearing 7 – Conditional Use Permit for Alcohol (Case Z25-43): Request at 1100 West Jasper Drive to rezone from B-5 to B-5 with CUP for on-premises alcohol sales in an event center. Staff recommended approval. Applicant Kevin Greenwood described planned use for events, weddings, etc. No public testimony. Motion to approve unanimously. Key Outcomes - PH1 (FLUM Amendment): Approved unanimously. The change from Regional Commercial to Residential Mix will allow residential development on 1.81 acres. - PH2 (Rezone to R-1, amended to SR-1): Recommended approval as amended to SR-1 (Single-Family Residential with 15,000 sq ft minimum lots) by a vote of 5-0 (no formal count, but no opposition noted). The recommendation goes to City Council with the density restriction. - PH3 (Rezone to SF-2): Approved unanimously. - PH4 (Rezone to B-5): Recommended approval by a vote of 3-1. Commissioner Cooper opposed citing incompatibility with the rural character and traffic. - PH5 (Rezone to R-1): Recommended approval by a vote of 3-1. Commissioner Cooper opposed due to safety concerns about limited road access. - PH6 (CUP for alcohol – nail salon): Approved unanimously. - PH7 (CUP for alcohol – event center): Approved unanimously. - Commissioner Appointments: Commissioner Cyndi Rowe appointed to the Heritage Preservation Board. Commissioners Khandiese Cooper and Andrew Giacomozzi appointed to the Traffic Impact Analysis Appeals Board. - Meeting Cancellation: The regular meeting scheduled for December 22, 2025, was cancelled unanimously.

The Killeen City Council held a special meeting on December 2, 2025, immediately following the regular council meeting. The meeting included approval of the agenda (6-0 vote) and two public hearings related to Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds and HUD reporting requirements. No council discussion occurred on the items; the sessions focused on presentations from staff and public comments. Consent Calendar - Agenda Approval: Councilmember Mayor Pro Tempore moved to approve the agenda, seconded by Councilmember Mannaris. The motion carried 6-0 (Councilwoman Cobb absent). Public Hearings - PH-25-073 – Substantial Amendment to the 2025-2026 Annual Action Plan for CDBG Fund Reprogramming - Staff (Ms. Macnair) presented: The amendment proposes reprogramming $1,349,445.69 from the suspended reunification center project to appliances, furniture, and IT ($349,455.69) and design/construction of a reuse water irrigation system for the community center ballpark ($1,000,000). The comment period runs December 8, 2025 – January 6, 2026, with a final public hearing on January 6, 2026. - Public Comments: - Melissa Brown opposed the proposal, arguing that an irrigation system was not a pre-approved HUD project, that furniture and furnishings were already contracted per Open Records, and that funds should instead be used for a homeless shelter at Station One (combining with $1M in CIP funds) or to renovate Station One as an operable fire station. She stated the city could defer reprogramming to next year. - A second speaker questioned the total cost of the Rosa Hereford Community Center renovation, suggesting it might be cheaper to tear down and rebuild, and proposed turning Fire Station One into a fire museum. - A third speaker criticized the city’s track record of incomplete projects (e.g., Gilmer Street), said funds should go to help residents with lead contamination, and urged focusing on finishing one job before starting another. - PH-25-074 – Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) for Program Year 2024-2025 - Staff (Ms. Macnair) presented: HUD requires the CAPER to describe resources made available, investments, geographic distribution, families assisted, fair housing actions, etc. The city has CDBG balances of $1.6–1.7M (including the $1.349M from the reunification center) and HOME balance of $1.6M. The comment period runs December 8–22, 2025; staff will submit final CAPER by December 29, 2025. - Public Comments: - Melissa Brown raised specific questions: 276% of expected code enforcement abatements paid; only nine families helped by Tibra (less than half expected); zero non-home homeless households supported; $828,590 excess match unexplained; questioned spending on Bob Gilmore Center wing ($1.5M since 2018-2022) and reunification center (paid $101,207 in FY24-25 but center does not exist). She also criticized use of CDBG funds for code enforcement. - Michael Fonino cautioned about the city’s damaged reputation with HUD (referencing a past arrest and federal prison time for mismanagement of funds). He urged the council to formally read public comments into the record and weigh them carefully. Key Outcomes - The council voted 6-0 to approve the agenda. - No votes were taken on the substantive amendments or CAPER; the public hearings served to inform the public and open comment periods as required by HUD. - The comment periods were formally opened: December 8, 2025 – January 6, 2026 for PH-25-073 (substantial amendment) and December 8–22, 2025 for PH-25-074 (CAPER). - Staff will present an update on the reunification center project on January 20, 2026. - Final action on the substantial amendment is scheduled for January 6, 2026; the CAPER will be submitted to HUD by December 29, 2025.

On December 2, 2025, the Killeen City Council held a regular meeting at City Hall (101 N. College Street) beginning at 3:00 PM. All council members were present (7 members, with Councilmember Cobb attending via Zoom). The meeting included presentations, a work session, consent agenda, public hearings, discussion items, an executive session, and final resolutions. Key actions included approval of a nuisance vehicle ordinance, a rezoning for a downtown bar, a 3% cost‑of‑living adjustment for the city manager, and placement of two future agenda items. Presentations - Killeen Star Award (PR‑25‑029): Mayor Pro Tem Adams presented the award to Miss Janie Free, recognizing her extensive volunteer service with Girl Scouts, KBI, RHI Texas, and other community organizations. - Bell County Child Safety Check (PR‑25‑030): Bell County Tax Assessor‑Collector (with Commissioner Whitson, Commissioner Minor, and County Treasurer Evans) presented a check for $185,998.68 to the city. This annual allocation comes from a $1.50 fee per vehicle registration (333,600 vehicles registered in FY25, totaling over $500,000). Since 2001, Bell County has distributed $9,685,141.98, with Killeen receiving over $3.4 million. Consent Calendar All consent items were approved unanimously (7‑0): - Minutes of the November 4, 2025 regular and special meetings. - Quarterly investment report (ending September 30, 2025). - Award of RFP 25‑38 for generator acquisition/maintenance at Fire Station 4 to The Brandt Companies, LLC ($837,000), funded by FEMA hazard mitigation grants. - Interlocal agreement with Hill Country Transit District for public transportation (budgeted $650,000). - Professional services agreement with Landscapes Unlimited for Stonetree Golf Course irrigation system renovation ($2,669,640.29), funded by bond proceeds. - Ordinance consolidating four appeals/adjustment boards into a single Board of Adjustment (9 members with specific expertise requirements). - Ordinance adopting 2024 International Building Codes, 2024 International Fire Code, and 2023 National Electrical Code, effective January 1, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony On nuisance vehicle ordinance (PH‑25‑071): - Melissa Brown opposed the change, arguing it could negatively impact service members, that the new "nuisance vehicle" definition is subjective, and that the city already targeted her. She also claimed the ordinance no longer exactly mirrors state code and questioned the lack of a judicial warrant (City Attorney clarified an administrative warrant is obtained). - Council members discussed protections for deployed soldiers; City Manager Reynolds and staff committed to sharing the ordinance with Fort Hood leadership and working with vehicle owners before towing. On rezoning for a bar (PH‑25‑072): - Melissa Brown opposed making the property a permanent BC‑1 zone, suggesting a conditional use permit (CUP) instead to prevent an unlimited number of bars downtown. - Michael Fanino expressed no opposition to the bar itself, but asked what the city had done to set the applicant up for success, noting the lack of disposable income in the community. Discussion Items - Work Session: Council briefly reviewed agenda items 3–12; no final action taken. - Quarterly Financial Report (DS‑25‑054): Presented by Mrs. Tangelen. Key highlights: - General Fund: $129 million in revenues (103% of budget), $126.7 million in expenses (95% of budget), ending fund balance $36.7 million. - Water/Sewer Fund: 97% revenue, 95% expenses, balance $11.1 million. - Other funds: Solid Waste, Drainage, Aviation, Golf Course, Hotel Occupancy Tax (STR collections still challenging), Street Maintenance. - Citywide staff turnover: 15.93%; police/fire fill rate 90%. - Investment Report (RS‑25‑185): Presented by Mr. Scott Gruber. The Fed cut rates by 0.25% in September and November; a third cut expected. Portfolio weighted average yield: 4.20% (down from 4.27% in June). Year‑to‑date interest income: $11.3 million. - Councilmember Future Agenda Items: - RQ‑25‑010: Killeen Children’s Museum and Immersion Center Initiative (placed on future agenda by 7‑0 vote). - RQ‑25‑011: Original Fire Station 1 (Avenue D) Request for Proposal (placed on future agenda by 7‑0 vote). Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved 7‑0. - Nuisance Vehicle Ordinance (PH‑25‑071): Public hearing held; ordinance approved 7‑0. The ordinance amends Chapter 18 to define “nuisance vehicle,” allow administrative warrants, and fine violators; effective immediately. - Rezoning (PH‑25‑072): Rezone 301 East Avenue D from B‑5 (HOD) to BC‑1 (HOD) approved 7‑0. Applicant plans to operate a speakeasy‑style bar. - City Manager Evaluation (RS‑25‑189): After executive session (4:48 PM – 5:32 PM), council approved a 3% cost‑of‑living adjustment for City Manager Cagle. Vote: 6‑0 (Councilmember Cobb absent).

The Killeen City Council met on November 18, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. to discuss and vote on a range of items including presentations on downtown revitalization, a quarterly economic development update, energy procurement, fire department equipment financing, multiple zoning and annexation matters, and an update on the Anthem Park development. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from October 21, 2025. - Approved Resolution RS 25182 casting 218 votes for Kenny Wells (of the city's 2,000 total votes) for the Tax Appraisal District of Bell County Board of Directors for 2026. - Approved appointments to various boards, commissions, and committees, including: Rakia Stanu (Animal Advisory Committee), Mr. Benton (Audit Committee), Johnny Frederick (Capital Improvement Advisory Committee, community representative), Josie McKinney (Heritage Preservation Board). - Authorized the city manager to review energy proposals from L5E LLC and execute a contract for the best value. - Approved Ordinance OR 25014 authorizing the issuance of a $3.5 million Limited Tax Note for 150 self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBAs), awarded to Mesero at an interest rate of 2.699745% (received 9 bids). Public Comments & Testimony - Edmund Cochran: Criticized the reappointment of Bruce White to the Housing Authority without review, alleged lack of council attendance at senior center and parks meetings, questioned spending on conferences, and raised concerns about city hall conditions. - Michael Fernino: Advocated for waste-to-energy technology, argued that Killeen lacks high-paying manufacturing jobs due to over-zoning for residential, and said downtown revitalization does not replace economic opportunity. - Melissa Brown: Opposed B3 zoning for a 1.477-acre parcel (PH 25066) near a school, urging adherence to the comprehensive plan’s neighborhood business designation; also opposed the R3F zoning (PH 25068) arguing citizens want less multifamily housing; on the disannexation item (PH 25070), she agreed with the petitioner that the city has failed to deliver promised services. - Peter Stanonick (applicant for PH 25066): Explained his request for a hair salon, noted costs for sign and PDF subscription, and stated it meets the comprehensive plan. - Dylan Wyison (petitioner for disannexation): Explained the history of annexation and promises of water/sewer infrastructure, offered to build utilities at his own cost with some city compensation, and expressed willingness to continue negotiations. - Halford Dudley (resident): Stated he has received no city services beyond fire protection since being annexed in 2008. Discussion Items - Texas Main Street Designation (PR 25026): City staff reported that Killeen was officially accepted into the Texas Main Street program on November 7, 2025. The designation follows a rigorous evaluation process, with over $15 million in private investment spurred by city grants, 1,000+ volunteer hours, and 85,000 in sponsorships. Killeen is the only Main Street city in Bell County and one of 31 in Texas with both Main Street and Certified Local Government status. - Texas Downtown President's Award (PR 25027): The Hack's Western Wear Building, renovated by Southern Roots Brewing Company at a cost of $1.2 million, was awarded the Texas Downtown President's Award for best economic game changer (population over 50,000). The brewery accounts for 10% of downtown visitors, created 22 jobs, and has become a catalyst for further investment. - KEDC Quarterly Update (PR 25028): The Blue Acre project closed on property, adding 170,000 sq. ft. of industrial flex space; MCI expanded from 13,000 to 25,700 sq. ft. and from 40 to 150+ employees; new branding revealed; 16 RFIs answered this quarter; upcoming events include a biannual luncheon and an economic development summit. - Energy Proposals (RS 25184): An energy consultant warned of rising ERCOT demand (projected to double by 2031) and recommended locking in electricity rates from 2032 to 2038 at 7 cents per kWh to avoid potential 11–15 cent rates. Council discussed the need to hedge against volatility. - Anthem Park Update: Staff reported that Dave & Busters has opened, but the full build-out requires significant traffic improvements at multiple intersections due to already congested levels of service (Level F). The city is working with TxDOT and Killeen-Temple MPO on alternative intersection designs at Stan Schlueter and I-14. The developer’s existing 12.7 million dollar TERS reimbursement may need to be increased. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved 5-0. - PH 25065 (rezone 400 Liberty St from M1 to R3A) approved 5-0. - PH 25066 (rezone 1.477 acres from A to B3) approved 5-0. - PH 25068 (rezone 805/807 W Ave I from B5 to R3F) approved 5-0. - PH 25069 (amendment to PUD at Janelle/Clear Creek) approved 5-0. - PH 25070 (disannexation of 126.71 acres) disapproved 5-0; council directed staff and petitioner to continue negotiations and return with details on costs and feasibility. - No vote was taken on the energy item (remained in discussion); Anthem Park update was informational.

The Planning and Zoning Commission held a regular meeting on November 10, 2025, following a workshop at 4:30 p.m. The regular meeting began at 5:00 p.m. in the Utility Collections Large Conference Room. Key agenda items included a public hearing on a proposed amendment to a Planned Unit Development (PUD), as well as commission and staff items regarding board appointments and consolidation. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Unanimously approved. - Approval of Minutes: Unanimously approved (minutes from October 27, 2025). Public Comments & Testimony - Cameron Cochrane (no address given) questioned whether a commissioner attended a taxpayer-funded conference (American Planning Association, October 20–24) and raised concerns about the PUD amendment: short deadlines for property notifications, possible pre-sales of lots, flooding, and traffic congestion. He stated that the area floods and roads are not fixed. - Melissa Brown (Killeen resident) addressed commission staff items: she argued that commissioners appointed to the Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) Appeals Board should be trained on traffic impact analysis; she opposed consolidating various boards of adjustment (fire, construction, zoning, etc.), stating each requires specific expertise and that some are legally required to exist. She also tied her comments to the conference attendance question. Discussion Items - PH-1: PUD Amendment (Case Z25-36) – A request by Republic Engineering & Development Services on behalf of Hereford Development, LLC and the Sheryl Yowell Anderson 1998 Trust to amend the PUD zoning on approximately 390.72 acres located south of Stagecoach Road and west of East Trimmier Road. The original PUD was approved August 9, 2022 (Ordinance 22058). The proposed amendment adds a new SF2 lot size (45-foot wide, 4,500 sq ft minimum) while reducing the number of R1 (60-foot) lots. Total lots increase from 969 to 1,033 (64 lots, discounting commercial lots), with a net increase of 57 dwelling units. The developer also revised park amenities: three covered pavilions (total 2,700 sq ft) instead of one large pavilion, one consolidated dog park relocated away from the playground, and wildflower preserve still planned. Staff notified 314 surrounding property owners; only one written opposition was received (no reason given). Staff recommended approval. - Developer (spokesperson): Expressed support, stating the amendment addresses affordability and allows more diverse housing while preserving over 90 acres of green space, three miles of trails, and masonry walls. He emphasized that larger lot sizes (half-acre, one-acre) are retained. - Public Hearing (Opposition): - Heather McNeely (Killeen resident) opposed the amendment, citing lack of a new environmental study and traffic analysis, removal of a planned wildflower garden (though developer later clarified it remains), increased erosion and traffic (estimated 115 additional daily trips), and that a citizen survey indicated residents want larger lots. She also noted that road construction on Stagecoach Road is already underway. - Cameron Cochrane (second appearance) opposed, adding that the area is a food desert and that the developer is reducing lot sizes to increase profit. - Commissioner Cedric Moss asked clarifying questions: the wildflower preserve is still in the developer’s plans; the updated traffic analysis will be an update rather than a full new study; the citizen survey was a random sample of 500 Killeen residents, not specifically potential buyers. He also noted that the dog park appears centrally located and accessible to all lots. - Vote: Motion to approve as presented by staff. Vote: 7 in favor, 1 opposed (Commissioner opposed due to existing congestion in the area). Commission and Staff Items 1. Appointment to Heritage Preservation Board (HPB): Motion to postpone to next meeting due to low commissioner attendance. Unanimous. 2. Appointment to Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) Appeals Board: Motion to postpone to next meeting. Unanimous. 3. Consolidation of Various Boards of Adjustment: Staff presented an FYI that City Council (October 21, 2025) directed staff to draft an ordinance consolidating the aviation, fire prevention, construction, and zoning boards of adjustment into a single 9-member board (with specific experience requirements). The ordinance is scheduled for City Council on December 2, 2025. No action needed. 4. Attendance Chart: No changes. Key Outcomes - PH-1 (PUD Amendment) Approved (7-1). - Appointments to HPB and TIA Appeals Board postponed to the December 8, 2025 meeting. - Consolidation of Boards of Adjustment – Informational only; ordinance to be considered by City Council.