El Paso City Council Meeting - April 14, 2026: Proclamations, Bond Issuances, and Deck Plaza MOU
El Paso City Council Meeting - April 14, 2026
On Tuesday, April 14, 2026, the El Paso City Council convened at 10:01 AM with Mayor Pro Tem Alejandra Chavez presiding. The meeting began with proclamations, followed by public comment, consent agenda, and action on multiple items including bond issuances, a memorandum of understanding for the downtown deck plaza, and various capital improvement transfers. The meeting adjourned at 5:24 PM.
Consent Calendar
- The council approved the consent agenda (revised to delete item 11 per Representative Boyar Trejo) unanimously.
- First reading of ordinances (items 15–19) passed unanimously.
- Items 20–22 (property conveyances) were approved unanimously.
- Item 23 (amending Title 12 for electronically operated parking control systems) passed unanimously.
- Item 24 (speed zone amendment on McComb Street) passed unanimously.
- Items 25–27 (bond issuance, refunding, and redemption) each passed unanimously.
- Item 28 (district two discretionary funds for Pride event) passed unanimously.
- Addition to agenda (District 7 funding for Día de los Niños event) passed unanimously.
- Item 31 (list of projects for 2022 Community Progress Bond Proposition C) passed unanimously.
- Item 33 (task order for Cedar Grove improvements) passed unanimously.
- Item 34 (budget transfers for zoo, libraries, and traffic signals) passed unanimously.
Public Comments & Testimony
- Carlos Sainz (on item 14): Urged that the public health accreditation consultant address Northeast YMCA closure and community health needs.
- Joe Gudenrath (on items 23 & 32): Expressed support for parking enforcement changes but asked that parking revenues be kept for downtown enhancements; supported the deck plaza MOU as a once-in-a-generation opportunity.
- Leila Mayorga (on item 32): Supported the MOU, citing economic benefits and personal connection to downtown.
- Jimena Guerrero (on item 32): Supported the MOU, emphasizing connection and inclusion of young people.
- Carlos Sainz (on item 32): Opposed the deck plaza, calling it a "pipe dream" and urging a public vote; tied it to needed YMCA funding.
- Ricardo Mora (on item 32): As President/CEO of the El Paso Chamber, supported the MOU, highlighting economic development.
- Manny Rodriguez (on item 32): Supported the MOU, detailing technical elements like future-proofing and financial safeguards.
- Joshua Ruiz (on item 32): Supported the MOU, comparing it to Klyde Warren Park.
- Nadia Antowan (on item 32): Opposed the MOU, expressing frustration over perceived lack of public input and lack of parking.
- Elizabeth Crawford (Call to the Public): Spoke against abortion, linking Earth Day to population control.
- Claudia Contreras Siller: Highlighted animal cruelty, kitten overpopulation at shelter, and urged support for TNR.
- Ron Como: Argued the city violated state health codes by not impounding stray dogs due to shelter capacity claims.
- Selina Serrano: Voiced concern over potential YMCA closure in Northeast, noting its role for seniors, families, and low-income residents; started an online petition with 170+ signatures.
- Leo Arcos: Detailed negotiations between YMCA and city; claimed $300,000 needed for safety repairs but building is grandfathered; urged council to work with community to keep facility open.
- Carlos Sainz (Call to the Public): Repeated opposition to deck plaza and pleaded for YMCA to be leased for $1.
- Julia Curtin: Supported a new nonprofit taking over YMCA operations, citing benefits for seniors and competitive swimming.
- Wesley Lawrence: Supported a nonprofit takeover of YMCA, emphasizing community safety and youth opportunities.
- Ivan Rosales: As a veteran and swim parent, noted loss of aquatic facilities in Northeast and urged saving the YMCA as a lifeline.
- Jessica Kell: Supported nonprofit takeover, noting over 170 petition signatures.
- Lola Rosales: As a senior member, pleaded for YMCA to stay open for therapy and socialization.
- John Camacho: Advocated for high school swim teams that rely on YMCA pool.
- Rick Alvarado: Emphasized YMCA's 60+ year history and urged council to keep it open.
- Mike Baker: Supported YMCA, noting dollar-a-year lease issue; urged council to reconsider.
- Esperanza Avila (Spanish): Supported YMCA, stating it serves all ages from 1 to 90.
- Bruno Vázquez: Announced Architecture Week events, including children's workshops and 5K run.
- Eddie Chavez: Requested progress on Montana Vista water phase 2; criticized $8,700 charge per connection.
- Marcy Chavez: Questioned expected $8,700 charge for water pipeline in Montana Vista; criticized utility costs.
- Aaron Morga: Questioned city's air quality and opposition to data centers and gas plants.
- Albert Rivera: Opposed deck plaza and data center tax breaks, arguing funds should go to parks citywide.
- Julie Alvarado: Urged council to break Chapter 380 tax agreement with Meta Data Center.
- Mary Woodruff: Urged rejection of El Paso Electric natural gas power plant, citing health risks and water use.
- Elisa Yamas: Opposed Meta Data Center due to water consumption (1.5 million gallons/day) and import pipeline costs.
- Miguel Escoto (Amanecer People's Project): Called for breaking Meta deal; others spoke against data center, citing environmental and financial costs.
- Bruno Vázquez (on item 32): Supported MOU, saying it establishes clear responsibilities and enables fundraising.
- Wesley Lawrence (on item 32): Opposed MOU, fearing eventual taxpayer burden; called for city to focus on basic services.
- Matthew Guzman (on item 32): Supported MOU, saying it's a quality-of-life investment for future generations.
- Nicole Reese (on item 32): Supported MOU, citing community engagement and collaboration.
Discussion Items
- Item 23 (Parking Enforcement): Code Enforcement Director Steve Alvarado presented amendments to allow mailed citations for parking violations, with 21-day appeal period. Future technology includes multi-space meters, license plate recognition, and improved enforcement. Council expressed support. Passed.
- Item 24 (Speed Limits): Planner Joshua Lermo presented amendment to extend 45 mph zone on McComb Street into new residential areas. Representative Boyar Trejo noted speeding concerns and requested additional safety measures. Passed.
- Items 25–27 (Bond Issuances): Robert Cortinas presented three actions: 1) Issuance of up to $71.14M for Community Progress Bond (voter-approved); 2) Refunding up to $435.35M to generate ~$13M in debt service savings; 3) Defeasance of $1.375M in bonds, saving $427,000. Council praised 20% debt reduction over five years. Passed.
- Item 28 (Pride Event Funding): Approved $2,500 from District 2 discretionary funds for annual Pride event on June 27, 2026. Passed.
- Item 29 (CIP Mid-Year Update): Ivette Hernandez presented update on capital projects: 2,551 jobs created in FY2026; $970M spent since FY2018; progress on public safety, quality of life, and community progress bonds. Council discussed project timelines and coordination with external agencies. No action.
- Item 30 (Audit Report): Margarita Marin and Rachel Ornsby presented FY2025 audit results: 10th consecutive year with zero audit findings; clean opinions on financial statements and internal controls; city received Triple Crown award for 4th year. Council commended staff.
- Item 31 (Proposition C Projects): Fernando Fierro presented allocation of $5.2M for solar lights, solar panels at public safety complex, and green infrastructure. Projects selected based on service requests and technical considerations. Council debated process shift from original zoo-focused plan but approved.
- Item 32 (Deck Plaza MOU): Ian presented non-binding MOU with County and Downtown Deck Plaza Foundation to pursue future-proofing for a deck plaza over I-10. $43M needed for future-proofing; $22.5M secured, $6M local match required, $14.5M gap. MOU does not commit city funds. Council debated fiscal responsibility and community support. Passed 7-1 (Representative Limon voting nay).
- Item 33 (Cedar Grove Improvements): Awarded task order to MSTAR LLC for $1.6M to repair storm drains, pavement, and ADA sidewalks in District 3. Passed.
- Item 34 (Budget Transfers): Approved transfers from quality of life investment interest for zoo projects (sea lion pool, Asia Forest roof, South American Pavilion, zoo-wide improvements), library maintenance (five branches), and traffic signals (Donohue and Byrd; Donohue and West Green). Passed.
Key Outcomes
- Consent Agenda approved with revision.
- Parking ordinance (item 23) passed, allowing mailed citations and future technology.
- McComb Street speed zone amendment passed.
- Bond issuances (items 25–27) approved: up to $71.14M for Community Progress, up to $435.35M refunding, and $1.375M defeasance.
- Deck Plaza MOU (item 32) approved 7-1; no immediate financial commitment, but establishes partnership framework.
- Cedar Grove Improvements (item 33) awarded.
- Budget transfers (item 34) approved for zoo, libraries, and traffic signals.
- Public comment on YMCA closure prompted council to note they are exploring opportunities; no formal action taken.
Meeting Transcript
Good morning. Good morning, Al Paso. Buenos días, bienvenidos. I want to give a warm welcome to everyone who is joining us in Council Chambers this morning. Thank you for being here. Miss Prime. Yes, good morning, and welcome to the presentation of the mayor's proclamations. This morning we have Mayor Po Tim Alejandra Chavez present and presiding. We begin with a pledge of allegiance, and this morning to lead us in the pledge, we have students from Coach Wally Hartley PK eight school. At the invitation of City Representative Diana Maldonado Rocha, we have Paloma White Seeker, Casey Johnson, Harper Wine, Aurora Daniel, Ian Menchen, Darwin Pimentel, Vince Bernal, Valentina Castro, Alia Lyaka, Kayleigh Boo, Isabella Salas, Lux Arenas, Kaylee Queto, and Keanu Curtis. And you all for freedom. Thank you guys. Thank you guys. That brings us to the mayor's proclamations. For those of you receiving a proclamation, your group will have up to four minutes collectively to speak at the podium and receive the proclamation. After you receive the proclamation, you will be invited to take a photo with a council. The first proclamation is Sexual Awareness Month, 2026. Representative Rocha. Thank you, Mayor Pro Tem Chavez. If I can have those that are here, I see them in the audience. I saw them this morning. There they are. Here we go. Thank you for coming to City Hall today. I'm going to read your proclamation. Whereas sexual violence affects individuals and families across all communities and backgrounds, causing lasting trauma and significant harm. Studies indicate that one in three women and one in six men experience some form of sexual violence in their lifetime. With many cases going unreported, highlighting the urgent need for awareness, prevention, and survivor support. And whereas the Center against Sexual and Family Violence has served the city of El Paso with comprehensive prevention, advocacy, support, and education for survivors of sexual assault and their families. Provided sexual assault services to more than one thousand survivors, and responded to over 240 hospital accompaniment calls across area hospitals. And whereas CASVI's theme, consent is loud, emphasizes the importance of clear communication, mutual respect, affirmative consent, and community accountability in preventing sexual violence. And whereas educating individuals and communities about consent, healthy relationships, bystander intervention, and equitable treatment, strength and safety, and respect across all settings. Excuse me, and fostering a culture of accountability and care. Now, therefore, be it proclaimed by the mayor and council of the City of El Paso that the month of April 2026 shall be known as Sexual Assault Awareness Month, 2026, signed by the Honorable Mayor Renard Johnson. Good morning. Good morning. It's truly an honor to be here with you, representatives and mayor pro tem. My name is Sandra Navarrez Garcia, I'm the executive director to the Center Against Sexual and Family Violence. And as Ms. Rocha mentioned, sexual assault affects all individuals and affects our community, it affects our households, family members, just everyone across the board. And oftentimes it's something that we're really unprepared for. And so in our true theme, this this particular month of consent is allowed. We want to be able to emphasize that consent should be clear, it should be active, it should be ongoing, never assumed or implied. And I think those are really important words because I think oftentimes we believe that you ask once, and that's just the answer for here until the end of time. But this conversation is very much like our theme is continuous and is ongoing year after year. These are services that we provide both to individuals in the hospital, in person, on the phone, via chat, however, it is that the individual wants to access the services because we understand that it's difficult to come forward. You obviously know we're also your local domestic violence program. And I think that those individuals victimized by domestic violence are more likely to come forward and receive services, whereas our survivors of sexual assault is really more of a challenge. And so think of you know, God forbid, anyone in this room, today you're living your most normal life. Tonight something happens, and tomorrow your world has been flipped upside down.
openpublica.com