Public Meetings - Rockport, Texas

The Rockport City Council held a regular meeting on October 27, 2026, at 5:00 PM at Rockport City Hall. The meeting included ceremonial proclamations, unanimous approval of the consent calendar, and two zoning requests to change properties from R-1 to B-1. All votes were unanimous. The City Manager provided updates on tourism certifications and upcoming events. Ceremonial Matters - Proclamation – Steve Russell Day (November 15, 2026): The Mayor read a proclamation honoring Steve Russell, a Native Sun Distinguished Artist, U.S. Navy veteran, and founding member of the Rockport Art Association, in celebration of his 80th birthday and contributions to the arts. - Proclamation – Municipal Court Week (November 2–6, 2026): The Mayor proclaimed Municipal Court Week in recognition of the role of municipal courts in upholding the rule of law and providing fair justice. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (4-0) the following items without discussion: - Minutes of the October 13, 2026 regular meeting. - Resolution 2026-46R authorizing expenditures for CIP Projects – Vehicles & Equipment scheduled replacement purchases as part of the FY 2026-27 Budget. - 4th Quarter Hotel Occupancy Tax Grant Funding Reports for Texas Maritime Museum, Christmas in the District (RCAD), Mural Fest (RCAD), Heritage Programs (RCAD), Rockport Little Theatre, Friends of Fulton Mansion, Art Center, and Rockport Conference Center. - Resolution 2026-47R accepting the Fourth Quarter Investment Report. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the general Citizens to Be Heard portion. One speaker card was submitted for a later agenda item (item 9), and that speaker was recognized during that item. - During the public hearing for item 8 (115 Lorena St.), no one from the public spoke for or against the request. - During the public hearing for item 9 (108 N. Hood St.), no one from the public spoke for or against the request. Discussion Items Item 7 – Second Reading of Ordinance 2031 (Records Management) - The City Secretary presented the ordinance to amend the City’s Records Management provisions to bring them into compliance with state law. The council approved the second and final reading unanimously. Item 8 – Rezoning of 115 Lorena St. from R-1 to B-1 - Amanda Torres, Director of Building & Development, presented the staff report. The property is currently zoned R-1 (annexed in August 2017 with that classification) but the future land use map designates the area for commercial use. The applicant, Ocean Boy Homes, plans to build a business retail space fronting Market Street (FM 1069). Adjacent properties include R-1 residential and a legal non-conforming RV park. Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval. The applicant’s engineer, Brandy Carl, confirmed the project includes extending a sewer line to the property. The council approved the first reading of Ordinance 2032 unanimously. Item 9 – Rezoning of 108 N. Hood St. from R-1 to B-1 - Staff reported that the property is on an arterial roadway and the future land use map shows commercial use. Adjacent properties are zoned R-1 with legal non-conforming commercial uses. The property owner, present with his wife, stated the property has been taxed as commercial for 14 years since before annexation and requested the change to match its historical use. Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval. The council approved the first reading of Ordinance 2033 unanimously. City Manager’s Update - City Manager Vanessa Shrauner announced that Rockport received the “Tourism Friendly Texas” designation, completing the grand slam of friendly certifications (tourism, music, film, digital media), making Rockport the only city in the Coastal Bend area and one of eight statewide with all four designations. She also noted: - Municipal Court mock trial (Queen vs. Snow White) on November 6. - State of the City event on October 28, 5:00–6:30 PM. - Only one council meeting in November, moved to Monday, November 9. - Rockport Citizens University final class on November 18. City Council Reports - Ward 2: No report. - Ward 3: No report. - Ward 4: Reminded residents of Halloween safety on Enterprise Road. - The Mayor recognized City Secretary Shelley Goodwin for being appointed Secretary of the Texas Municipal Clerks Association. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously (4-0). - Ordinance 2031 (Records Management): Approved on second and final reading unanimously (4-0). - Ordinance 2032 (Rezone 115 Lorena St.): Approved on first reading unanimously (4-0). - Ordinance 2033 (Rezone 108 N. Hood St.): Approved on first reading unanimously (4-0). - The meeting adjourned at 5:24 PM.

The Rockport City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, beginning at 5:01 p.m. at Rockport City Hall, 212 N. Live Oak. Mayor Tim Jayroe presided; Councilmember Matt Anderson (Ward 2), Mayor Pro Tem Brad Brundrett (Ward 3), and Councilmember Andrea Hattman (Ward 4) were present. Ward 1 remains vacant. A quorum was declared, and the meeting adjourned at 5:21 p.m. No public comments were made. Ceremonial Matters / Employee Recognition - City Manager Vanessa Shrauner presented the Tenure Tuesday celebration for Pablo Garcia, a mowing crew employee who has served the city for five years. Garcia was described as dependable, always willing to volunteer for extra work, and a strong team contributor. Consent Calendar - The Council unanimously approved the consent agenda, including the minutes of the September 22, 2026 Workshop and September 22, 2026 Regular Meeting. No items were pulled for separate discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - None. Ordinances, Resolutions and Public Hearings - Item 3 — Ordinance 2031 (first of two readings): Approved unanimously. City Secretary Shelley Goodwin explained that the update to the Records Management ordinance adds missing requirements and clarifications on records management liaison duties, creates a path for electronic records management to support the city’s paperless initiative and Laserfiche upgrade, and corrects retention and disposition provisions. Adoption is intended to bring the city into compliance with Texas State Library and Archives requirements. - Item 4 — Ordinance 2028 (second and final reading): Approved unanimously. The ordinance rezoned property at 733 S. Church St. (DOUGHTY & MATHIS OUTLOTS, LOT 5 THRU 8, E/2 OF O.L. 6, and the closed 8-foot alley adjacent to Lots 5–8) from R-2 (Second Single Family Dwelling District) to R-7 (Residential and Office District). Amanda Torres, Director of Building & Development, reported no changes. - Item 5 — Ordinance 2029 (second and final reading): Approved unanimously. The ordinance corrected a scrivener’s error in Section 5 of Ordinance No. 1946 by establishing January 1, 2024 as the correct Tax Increment Base date for Reinvestment Zone Number One. Staff reported no changes. - Item 6 — Resolution 2026-44R: Approved unanimously. Finance Director Robbie Sorrell said the resolution releases voluntary contributions collected from utility customers during fiscal year 2025–2026 to area volunteer fire departments on a pro rata basis. The mayor reported total distributions of about $292,000, including $87,315 to Fulton, $12,324 to Lamar, and approximately $192,000 to Rockport. - Item 7 — Resolution 2026-45R: Approved unanimously. The resolution approved the First Amendment and Restated Utility Services Agreement with Passport Shores, LLC. City Manager Shrauner described the amendment as a cleanup of an earlier agreement: it adds a water reservation, removes the city’s gas obligation after the gas system sale, converts impact fees to a one-house/one-LUE basis, and uses a single average impact fee rate for pre-purchased LUEs covering the first 140 houses. Passport Shores will pay approximately $54,000 in reservation fees into the utility fund to reserve fees for 10 years. Other Action Items and Updates - Item 8 — City Council Workshop dates: Approved unanimously. A goal-setting/budget kickoff workshop will be held February 8–9, 2027, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Vanessa Shrauner said Serena Breland will facilitate and will meet individually with council members by Zoom beforehand to gather priorities. - Item 9 — CIP Projects — Vehicles & Equipment (V&E) scheduled replacement purchases: The Council received this as an update and took no action. Financial Management Analyst Diane Pedersen explained that the approximately $2 million V&E line item in the FY 2026–27 budget is normally approved as a whole; the administration wanted to itemize purchases over $50,000 for council visibility while allowing faster ordering due to lead times. Council members praised the replacement planning and condition of aging vehicles. The City Manager said the item would be placed on a future agenda, possibly the consent agenda. City Manager’s Update - Shrauner announced the City Showcase and State of the City on October 28 at The Rock, beginning at 5:00 p.m. with the address at 6:30 p.m. She encouraged residents to visit department exhibits, noted free admission and limited seating, and said the event is larger than last year’s. City Council Reports - Ward 2: Councilmember Anderson reported constituent calls, praised Ryan’s crew for quick responses, and relayed thank-you calls from residents. - Ward 3 and Ward 4: Councilmembers Brundrett and Hattman reported quiet weeks and no issues. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved unanimously. - Ordinance 2031 passed on first reading (3–0). - Ordinance 2028 passed on second/final reading (3–0). - Ordinance 2029 passed on second/final reading (3–0). - Resolution 2026-44R approved unanimously (3–0). - Resolution 2026-45R approved unanimously (3–0). - Budget workshop for February 8–9, 2027 approved unanimously (3–0). - No action was taken on the V&E replacement purchase update; it will return on a future agenda.

The Rockport City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the Council Chambers at City Hall. The meeting included a proclamation for "Paint the Town Green and Gold," public comments on several topics, unanimous approval of consent and ordinance items, and an extensive discussion on the Flock Safety automated license plate reader (ALPR) system. The open portion of the meeting concluded with an executive session at 6:31 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - Chris Beach, representing Key Allegro Homeowners Association, spoke in support of Flock cameras, reporting that crime on Key Allegro has "way down" since installation in November 2022. He emphasized that the cameras are license plate readers only and are tied directly to the Rockport Police Department. - Jennifer Day, speaking on behalf of the Rockport Cultural Arts District, expressed appreciation for the council’s support of funding for downtown Christmas lights (Item 14) and highlighted the district’s economic and cultural impact. - Linda Gomez, municipal manager for Republic Services, introduced herself formally and expressed commitment to serving as a resource for the city. - Jacob Miller, a resident of Aransas Pass, urged the council to reject Flock cameras, arguing that they constitute mass surveillance, raise privacy and constitutional concerns, and have been terminated by neighboring jurisdictions. He cited data breach risks and the creation of a "digital dragnet." Consent Calendar The following items were approved unanimously via a single motion (motion by Councilmember Anderson, second by Councilmember Brundrett): - Approval of minutes from September 8, 2026. - North Street Water Main Extension. - Resolution 2026-40R increasing police sworn positions from 27 to 32. - Approval of 2027 employee holidays and council meeting schedule. - Memorandum of Agreement with Harte Research Institute. Ordinances, Resolutions and Public Hearings Item 7 – Solid Waste Fee Schedule (Ordinance 2026, Second Reading) Approved unanimously. The fee schedule was adjusted based on the Consumer Price Index. Item 8 – Rezone 504 Young St to Light Industrial (Ordinance 2027, Second Reading) Approved unanimously, changing zoning from B-1 to I-1. Item 9 – Rezone 733 S Church St to R-7 (Ordinance 2028, First Reading) The property owner, Rocky Gadim, requested rezoning from R-2 to R-7 to convert existing structures into professional offices for his construction company and his wife’s interior design practice. Staff report noted that the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval, with two public comments in favor and one opposed. The council heard public comments (none from the audience) and approved unanimously with discussion about signage and property values. Item 10 – Correct Tax Increment Base Date (Ordinance 2029, First Reading) Approved unanimously. City Manager Shrauner explained that the ordinance corrects a scrivener’s error to reflect the intended base date of January 1, 2024. Item 11 – Billboard for Tree Ordinance Awareness (Ordinance 2030, Only Reading) Approved unanimously. The ordinance authorizes a contract with Cooper Advertising, funded from the tree preservation and mitigation account, at approximately $9,800. The council was informed that the artwork may be reworked next year. Item 12 – Resolution Requesting TML Support for Mandatory Credit Legislation Approved unanimously. Kimberly Henry reported that jail credit mandates have resulted in $155,981 in waived fees since December 2025, with an estimated $39,000 of that coming from the city’s general fund. Item 13 – Adoption of Emergency Management Plan (Resolution 2026-42R) Approved unanimously. The plan establishes levels of readiness and emergency support functions for multi-jurisdictional coordination. Item 14 – General Fund Appropriation for Downtown Lights ($36,080.10) Approved unanimously. The funds will purchase Christmas lights for downtown, City Hall, and the new restroom facility. City Manager Shrauner noted that the total downtown request included additional HOT-funded items. Item 15 – Hotel Occupancy Tax Fund Awards (Resolution 2026-43R) Approved unanimously, allocating HOT funds to qualified nonprofit organizations for FY 2026-2027. Discussion: Flock Safety Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) System Chief Nathan Anderson delivered a presentation on the Flock camera system. He explained that the cameras capture license plates and vehicle characteristics only, not drivers. The data is currently retained for seven days (down from 30) and is not shared with other agencies. He reported that in 2025-2026, the system assisted in 60 cases, leading to 38 arrests, including serious crimes. He outlined three options for the council: continue under the current closed-loop system, add additional safeguards, or discontinue the agreement. Councilmembers discussed public trust, data security, and potential legislative action. Councilmember Anderson (Ward 2) expressed support for the cameras, citing their benefit as a law enforcement tool and the strong policy safeguards in place. Councilmember Hattman (Ward 4) noted constituent distrust of the technology and suggested delaying a decision until the public has more information. City Manager Shrauner proposed bringing the item back for action after the new year, which was generally accepted. No vote was taken. Other Business - Interlocal Agreement with Aransas County (Item 17) – Approved unanimously. The agreement establishes participation in Reinvestment Zone Number One with a 60/40 tax increment split, and two county board members appointed. - Cancellation of October 13 Meeting (Item 18) – City Manager Shrauner requested to keep the meeting open as a contingency; no action taken. - City Manager’s Update – Vanessa Shrauner reported that the city is closing out the budget year and gearing up for park infrastructure projects and road improvements. - City Council Reports – Councilmembers provided updates on ward activities, including the Rockport-Fulton Humane Society event, the upcoming C Fair, the Tree Committee (considering future tree planting), and a CVB workshop. Key Outcomes - All consent items and ordinances approved unanimously (15 items). - Flock Safety ALPR discussion postponed; further review scheduled after the new year. - The October 13 regular meeting was not cancelled and remains scheduled. - The Interlocal Agreement for the tax reinvestment zone was finalized. - The council received the emergency management plan and the city manager’s monthly update.

A workshop meeting of the Rockport City Council was held on September 22, 2026, at 4:00 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers to discuss the proposed Austin Street Re-Design concept plan. City staff and consultants presented a 30% concept plan developed from public input, including design features, cost estimates, and phasing options. Council members provided feedback and directed staff to proceed with finalizing the design, with budget decisions deferred to the next fiscal year. Discussion Items - Presentation of 30% Concept Plan – Amanda Torres (Director of Building & Development) and Ryan Picarazzi (Director of Public Works) introduced the plan, which was developed by HAF consultants Thomas Everett (project manager) and David Beyer (landscape architect) following two public input meetings. Key design elements include: - Removal of the existing median and relocation of streetlights to the sides to reduce maintenance issues (lights frequently damaged by boat trailers). - Widened sidewalks for pedestrians. - Angled parking similar to current configuration, with an estimated gain of approximately 30 parking spaces (total parking not reduced, as strongly requested by the public). - Landscaping with native, salt-tolerant, low-water plants and site furnishings (benches, bike racks, bollards) chosen for durability and modular repairability. - Intersection accents celebrating Rockport’s identity (e.g., redfish, waves, oak trees), potentially using stamped concrete or colored asphalt. - Asphalt roadway with concrete intersections. - Cost Estimates and Phasing Options – The consultant presented three options: - Option 1: Full construction all at once (no phasing). Cost shown in handout but not explicitly stated in transcript. - Option 2: Major phasing – Phase 1: roadway and lighting improvements; Phase 2: streetscape, pedestrian, water quality, and drainage adjustments; Phase 3: side streets full improvements. - Option 3: Finer phasing – Phase 1: lighting and median removal (immediate fix); Phase 2: roadway; Phase 3: streetscape with temporary landscaping; Phase 4: permanent landscaping and water quality; Phase 5: side streets. Each phase assumed at 5-year intervals with 3% annual inflation, making the total project span up to 25 years (e.g., phase 5 completed 20 years after phase 1). The consultant noted that phasing is more expensive overall due to inflation but provides a more feasible start. - A 30% contingency was included in all estimates. - Council Comments and Questions – - Councilmember Brad Brundrett questioned the 20–25 year timeline if using 5-year phasing, suggesting a shorter interval (e.g., 3 years) to make the project more realistic. - Councilmember Matt Anderson asked about modularity of site furnishings to allow for easier replacement of parts; the consultant confirmed they would specify products with long-term availability. - Brundrett also raised concern for the businesses along Austin Street during construction and inquired about plans to minimize disruption. The consultant noted a line item in the cost breakdown for nighttime sidewalk work adjacent to businesses to avoid daytime closures. - A councilmember (likely Mayor Jayroe) expressed appreciation that the plan incorporates public input and maintains the “Rockport feel.” Key Outcomes - Council reached consensus (no formal vote recorded) to direct the consultants and staff to proceed with final design, with the understanding that a decision on phasing would be made during the next budget cycle (starting February 2027). - The consultants will deliver a final design (potentially up to 60% drawings) for future council consideration. - The workshop adjourned at approximately 5:00 PM to be followed by a regular council meeting.

The Rockport City Council held a Regular Meeting on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 5:00 PM at Rockport City Hall. The Council adopted the FY 2026-2027 budget, set the property tax rate, approved budget amendments, addressed a zoning request, and recognized employees and community milestones. The meeting adjourned at 5:47 PM. Proclamations and Recognitions - Tourism Friendly Community Proclamation: The city of Rockport was officially proclaimed a Tourism Friendly Community. Mayor Tim Jayroe shared anecdotes about visitors who discovered Rockport and expressed a desire to return or purchase property, highlighting the value of tourism promotion. - Tenure Tuesday: City Manager Vanessa Shrauner recognized two employees, Morgan Rodriguez and Joe Rikers, for their 10 years of service to the city. - GFOA Distinguished Budget Award: Finance Director Robbie Sorrell announced that the city received the 2025 Government Finance Officers Association Distinguished Budget Presentation Award, noting the achievement of receiving three special recognitions for long-range financial planning, a statistical supplemental section, and as a communication device. Consent Calendar - The Council unanimously approved the consent calendar, which included the August 25, 2026 City Council Meeting Minutes and a Consignment Auction Contract with ELCO Auctions Asset Marketing Solutions. Budget and Tax Rate Adoption - Public Hearings: The Council held public hearings for the FY 2026-2027 budget and the proposed tax rate. No members of the public provided comments on either item. - FY 2026-2027 Budget (Ordinance 2022): Adopted unanimously on one reading. The total all-funds budget is $55,925,059. The budget raises total property taxes by $113,638 (1.08%) compared to the previous year. Finance Director Sorrell noted the budget is essentially flat, as $183,312 of the increase is from new property added to the tax roll. Councilmember Matt Anderson commended the staff for crafting a budget that avoided a tax rate increase for existing homeowners. - Property Tax Rate (Ordinance 2023): Adopted unanimously. The tax rate is $0.426475 per $100 valuation, consisting of a Maintenance and Operations (M&O) rate of $0.241121 and an Interest and Sinking (I&S) rate of $0.185354. The proposed rate exceeds the no-new-revenue rate but does not exceed the voter-approved rate. Mayor Jayroe motioned to adopt the rate, describing it as an effective 0.71% increase in the property tax rate. Sorrell explained the M&O rate itself represented a 3.5% effective increase, which results in approximately $9.72 more in M&O taxes on a $100,000 home, clarifying this was the maximum allowable increase under the voter-approved rate. - Ratification Resolution (2026-38R): The Council unanimously passed a separate vote to ratify the property tax increase, as required by state law. - Budget Amendments: The Council approved amendments to the current FY 2025-2026 budget to address end-of-year shortfalls: - $30,000 from general fund reserves was appropriated to the Public Safety Communication Center (Ordinance 2024) to cover unanticipated overtime expenses. - $80,000 from general fund reserves was appropriated to the Aquatic Center (Ordinance 2025) for wages. The shortfall is attributed to the first full year of extended summer hours and Sunday operations. Ordinances, Resolutions, and Public Hearings - Solid Waste Fee Update (Item 12): Approved on first reading. An ordinance implementing the annual 4% CPI adjustment in the Republic Services contract was approved, resulting in a $1.09 increase for residential service. City Manager Shrauner noted the city will evaluate the contract for potential renegotiation upon its conclusion. - Zoning Change for 504 Young Street (Item 13): Approved on first reading. The property was rezoned from B-1 (General Business) to I-1 (Light Industrial) to allow Seaside Decorating to build a warehouse for general storage and distribution. Applicant Dan Hutchinson confirmed operations would be weekdays (8 AM to 5 PM) and include buffer zones. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval. No public comments were received during the public hearing. - Special Election Cancellation (Item 14): The Council unanimously adopted Resolution 2026-39R, cancelling the special election scheduled for November 3, 2026, for the unexpired Ward 1 term. The unopposed candidate, referred to in the meeting as Rocky, was declared elected. He introduced himself as a lifelong Rockport resident looking forward to serving. Other Action Items - Meeting Schedule Change (Item 15): The Council unanimously approved cancelling the regular meeting scheduled for Tuesday, December 22, 2026, due to its proximity to the Christmas holiday. - Wings Rescue Center Sponsorship (Item 16): Councilmember Brad Brundrett requested and the Council unanimously approved a sponsorship of up to $3,500 for the Wings Rescue Center. The funding matches the sponsorship model used annually by the county and the navigation district. City Manager Update and Council Reports - Austin Street Redesign: City Manager Vanessa Shrauner announced a workshop is scheduled for September 22, 2026, at 4:00 PM to discuss the redesign with consultants. - Community Announcements: Mayor Jayroe reminded the public of a 9/11 Remembrance ceremony on Friday at Veterans Memorial Park. He also praised the Rockport High School football team for their undefeated start and strong defensive performances. Councilmember Matt Anderson noted the Pirate Cove Network streams the games online. Executive Session and Adjournment The Mayor confirmed an Executive Session was not required. The meeting adjourned at 5:47 PM.

The Rockport City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at 5:00 PM at Rockport City Hall. The agenda included ceremonial recognitions, public testimony, consent agenda approvals, a board appointment, bond fund expenditures, scheduling updates, and city manager reports. The meeting was adjourned at 5:17 PM before the scheduled Executive Session could convene. Public Comments & Testimony - A representative from a local bird rescue and rehabilitation organization addressed the Council, describing the group's free educational programs and its ambassador birds. The speaker noted existing contracts with the county and NAV district, and requested that the Council consider placing a funding item on a future agenda. A Council member moved to place the matter on a future agenda. Ceremonial Matters - Recognition of Lieutenant Richard Page: Police Chief Nathan Anderson recognized Lieutenant Richard Page for completing the Texas Police Chiefs Association's LECOP leadership program, receiving designation number 206. Chief Anderson noted that only 206 officers out of over 80,000 in Texas have completed the program. The Mayor and Council commended Lt. Page. Consent Calendar - The Council unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included: Minutes of the August 11, 2026 Workshop and Regular Meeting. Resolution 2026-36R, authorizing a tax assessor-collection services agreement with Aransas County. Award of the 2026 Street Rehabilitation Project to Texas Materials Group, Inc. Third Quarter Hotel Occupancy Tax Grant Report for the Friends of Fulton Mansion. Discussion Items - Election Services Contract (Agenda Item 6): The Council reviewed Resolution 2026-37R for the November 3, 2026 election. Because the election was unopposed, a certificate of unopposed had been issued, rendering the resolution unnecessary. No action was taken. - Appraisal District Board Appointment (Agenda Item 7): The Mayor reported that mayors of Aransas Pass and Fulton provided recommendations (Steve Fisher and Warren Hassinger, respectively). The Council voted unanimously to appoint Warren Hassinger to the Aransas County Appraisal District Board. - Expenditure of Unspent Bond Funds (Agenda Item 8): Parks Director Brittany Aguirre requested approval to close out remaining park bond funds. The Council unanimously approved using approximately $43,000 from the 2015 bond for a parks maintenance building and a pond aerator, and 2016 bond funds for a covered observation deck and benches at Bent Oaks. - Changes to Meeting Schedule (Agenda Item 9): The Council approved moving the November 10 regular meeting to November 9 and canceling the November 24 meeting. The proposed cancellation of the December 8 meeting was identified as a typographical error (should have been December 22) and was deferred for correction. City Manager Update - City Manager Vanessa Shrauner promoted the online monthly report and highlighted events: Coffee with a Cop (Sept 9), National Night Out at the fairgrounds (Oct 6), Austin Street redesign meeting (Aug 27), and the upcoming budget and tax rate meeting (Sept 8). Council Reports - Councilmember Brundrett (Ward 3) noted his upcoming travel to Austin for the Texas Municipal League Policy Summit. He also reported on the 4-H "Boots on the Ground" event, which raised significant funds for youth programs. Adjournment - The meeting was adjourned at 5:17 PM. The Executive Session items listed on the agenda, including a discussion on alternative water sources, were not taken up before adjournment.

The Rockport City Council held a regular meeting on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at 5:00 PM. The agenda covered the consent calendar, a presentation of the proposed FY 2026–2027 budget, setting a tax rate hearing date, second readings of three ordinances, a special election call for the vacant Ward 1 seat, and an appointment to the Planning and Zoning Commission. The meeting concluded without entering the scheduled Executive Session. Consent Calendar The Council approved the consent calendar unanimously, which included the following items: - Approval of the City Council Minutes for July 28, 2026 (Budget Workshop 6 and the Regular Meeting). - Approval of Third Quarter Hotel Occupancy Tax Grant Funding Reports for the Texas Maritime Museum, Rockport Cultural Arts District (Heritage Programs, MuralFest, Christmas in the District), Rockport Center for the Arts (including ROCC), and Rockport Little Theatre. - Resolution 2026-30R, accepting the third quarter investment report. - Resolution 2026-31R, authorizing the Police Department to apply for the Crime Victim Notification Systems grant. - Resolution 2026-32R, authorizing the City Manager to accept a Hurricane Harvey property damage insurance settlement from Sedgwick CMA. Public Comments & Testimony The provided transcript begins with the budget discussion. No public comments were recorded from the Citizens to be Heard portion of the meeting in the supplied material. Budget and Tax Rate Items - FY 2026–2027 Budget Presentation: Finance Director Robbie Sorrell presented the City Manager's proposed budget. Councilmember Matt Anderson (Ward 2) clarified the General Fund increase from $16.18 million to $19.8 million was driven by gas sales and specific appropriations (including $1 million for the police department) and that the budget is balanced. He also noted the wastewater and water fund increased from $13,000 to $16,000, necessitating a pass-through rate to cover prior deficits. The Council emphasized that formal adoption will occur at the September 8, 2026 meeting. - Resolution 2026-33R (Tax Rate Hearing Date): The Council unanimously approved setting the public hearing date for the 2026 tax rate on September 8, 2026, utilizing the voter-approved tax rate of $0.426475 per $100 valuation. - Upcoming Events: City Secretary Shelley Goodwin announced the September 8 meeting will include the approval of utility fee ordinances, public hearings on the budget and tax rate, and the adoption of the budget and tax rate. Ordinances, Resolutions, and Public Hearings - Ordinance 2018 (Utility After-Hours Fee): Approved on second reading. Codifies an $85 fee for after-hours service calls. (Unanimous) - Ordinance 2019 (Sex Offender Residency): Approved on second reading. Updates definitions and state registry references. (Unanimous) - Ordinance 2020 (Zoning Map Amendment): Approved on second reading. Changes zoning at 1222 Highway 35 S (Forrest Oaks) from B-1 with an RV Park Conditional Use Permit to PUD (Planned Unit Development). (Unanimous) - Resolution 2026-34R (Special Election): Unanimously called for a Special Election on November 3, 2026 to fill the Ward 1 unexpired term. Candidate filing closes August 20, 2026. Petitions require 50 signatures. - Resolution 2026-35R (P&Z Appointment): Unanimously appointed Barry Hill to the Planning and Zoning Commission for the Ward 1 seat. City Manager's Update and City Council Reports - City Manager's Update: City Manager Vanessa Shrauner was not present for the meeting. No report was given. - Ward 2 (Councilmember Anderson): Thanked city staff for clearing debris from a fire hydrant in Hogan Holmes within 24 hours. Promoted the "Wings" event at the airport on August 15. - Ward 3 (Councilmember Brundrett): Nothing to report. - Ward 4 (Councilmember Hattman): Reported the Country Club seal coat project is nearly complete and well-reviewed. Invited residents to her "Real Talk" meeting on Thursday, August 13. Praised new downtown murals. - Mayor Jayroe: Thanked mural participants. Key Outcomes - Approved the Consent Calendar (Items 1–5). - Presented the FY 2026–2027 Budget; scheduled a public hearing and adoption for September 8, 2026. - Set the voter-approved tax rate as the proposed rate for the public hearing. - Approved all three ordinances on second and final reading (Unanimous, 4–0). - Called a Special Election for Ward 1 (November 3, 2026). - Appointed Barry Hill to the Planning and Zoning Commission. - Adjourned without entering the scheduled Executive Session.

The Rockport City Council held its seventh budget workshop on August 11, 2026, focusing on the FY 2026-2027 budget, a proposed switch in employee health insurance providers, property tax rate calculations, and water/sewer rate adjustments. Employee Health Insurance - Finance Director Robbie Sorrell presented a proposed shift from United Health to Blue Cross Blue Shield after United Health returned a 39% premium increase. Negotiations with Blue Cross Blue Shield resulted in an 11.28% increase. - The Blue Cross Blue Shield plan offers HSA, PPO, and a new HMO option. Employee-only coverage is available at no cost under the HSA and HMO plans, while the PPO plan will require a $125 per pay period employee contribution. - An HRA (Health Reimbursement Account) was introduced for the HSA plan, where the city covers costs after the employee pays a $3,500 deductible. - Councilmember Brad Brundrett suggested looking into city HSA contributions to help offset employee deductibles, a proposal the city will investigate for the next renewal cycle. Brinson benefits consulting fees remained unchanged. - Councilmember Andrea Hattman asked about the overall impact on employees, and it was confirmed that Brinson views the plan as comparable and not catastrophic, though employees have not yet been briefed on the change. Property Tax Rate and Budget - The Finance Director presented the proposed tax rate of 0.426475 per $100 valuation. Rockport maintains the lowest property tax rate in the area compared to neighboring cities like Corpus Christi, Portland, and Ingleside. - Even with a flat rate, taxpayers will see an estimated average increase of $64.98 due to a 4% rise in average taxable home values ($15,236). - The proposed rate supports the COPS grant, park investments, and capital equipment without new debt issuance, instead utilizing gas sale proceeds. Property tax revenue is falling as a percentage of the general fund (from 39% to 34%), due to a $27M loss in value from Proposition 9 and slowed growth. - Discussion included "buy-down" scenarios using $400,000 or $800,000 from reserves to lower the tax rate, but the Finance Director cautioned against this per TML and GFOA guidance, as it can impede the city's ability to keep pace with inflation and growth. Council members noted that a buy-down would set back tax rate recovery by 3 to 5 years. - The council discussed the importance of the voter-approved rate to ensure revenue stability, especially given state legislative threats to lower the revenue cap from 3.5% to 1%. - Councilor Matt Anderson summarized the recommendation to stay at 0.426475, which funds all planned initiatives (COPS grant, parks, equipment), keeps reserves at approximately 180 days, and avoids a tax rate increase. Water and Sewer Rates - The Finance Director highlighted a loss of over $1 million in water utility revenue due to drought restrictions and increased wholesale water costs. The previously approved water rate increase is a direct pass-through of costs from San Patricio, with no profit to the city. Council members clarified the distinction between drought stage changes (Stage 3 to Stage 2) and the rate increase. The rate structure is set to automatically adjust if wholesale prices change. Announcements and Next Steps - City Manager Vanessa Shrauner announced that the FY 2026-2027 Budget adoption and 2026 Tax Rate adoption are scheduled for September 8, 2026. Approval of ordinances for utility rates and fees, along with public hearings on the budget and tax rate, will also occur. Key Outcomes - The Council did not take a formal vote but expressed consensus to move forward with the flat tax rate (0.426475) budget framework. - Directives were given to explore HSA contributions for the next fiscal year. - The Fire Fund subscription model will remain unchanged. - The next steps involve finalizing the budget for adoption and setting the tax rate for the September 8 public hearing.

The City Council of Rockport, Texas, held a regular meeting on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the Council Chambers at City Hall. The meeting included ceremonial items, consent agenda approval, ordinance readings, two Planned Unit Development (PUD) rezoning requests, and the announcement of a councilmember's resignation. All votes were unanimous except for the denial of one PUD request. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the July 14, 2026, City Council Regular Meeting. - Approved Resolution 2026-27R authorizing the City Manager to take legal steps to collect delinquent Hotel Occupancy Taxes from hotels at 901 HWY 35 N. - Approved Change Order No. 3 for the GLO CDBG-DR drainage improvements project. Ceremonial Matters - Mayor Tim Jayroe read and presented a proclamation congratulating Kay Adams on the 10th anniversary of Wings Rescue Center, recognizing her work in rescuing and rehabilitating birds and promoting environmental stewardship. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 10 (1222 Highway 35 S PUD): No public comments were offered. The public hearing was closed without testimony. - Item 11 (1819-1833 S Ann Street PUD): Several residents spoke in opposition. Key concerns included: - Lot sizes far smaller than surrounding properties, creating high density inconsistent with the area's character. - Drainage issues; a resident noted overflow from a detention pond could flood neighboring properties and that her street had flooded on June 16th. - Traffic increases, including concerns about golf carts on 45-mph roads. - A property owner (Arnold Castillo) stated his lots would be landlocked by the development with no access to streets or utilities. - Planning and Zoning Commissioner Kim Hesley clarified her opposition, stating the PUD tool was being used inappropriately to create high-density zoning without public input. Discussion Items - Ordinance 2018 (First Reading): Amends Code Chapter 102 to add an $85 after-hours service charge for utility turn-on/off requests made outside regular hours. Finance Director Robbie Sorrell confirmed this is not a new charge but a cleanup to codify existing practice. - Ordinance 2019 (First Reading): Amends Chapter 66-70 on Sex Offender Residency Restrictions to align with state law (Chapter 62, Texas Code of Criminal Procedure). Police Chief Nathan Anderson explained the change updates the definition of "residence" to a 7-day threshold (instead of 14 days) and removes separate definitions for permanent and temporary residence. - Resolution 2026-26R: Appoints and reappoints members to the Planning and Zoning Commission. Councilmember Matt Anderson (Ward 2 liaison) proposed the following appointees: Place 1 Ruth Davis, Place 2 Josh Dowling, Place 3 Kim Hesley, Place 4 Warren Hassinger, Place 5 Rocky Jimenez, and Place 6 Rick Moore. One Ward 4 position remains vacant pending confirmation. - Resolution 2026-28R: Authorizes an application to the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) Water Supply Improvements Grant (WSIG) program for up to $21 million with zero matching requirement. The funds would address seven impact fee study projects, including improving water pressure in northern areas, eliminating dead-end water lines through looping, and extending service to approximately 90 properties currently without water. - Resolution 2026-29R: Approves an agreement with BarCom for additional IT services, expanding coverage from 66 workstations to 105 workstations by including the Public Safety Center, providing 24/7 support. The cost is covered by savings from a eliminated position within the IT budget. - Item 10 – Rezoning to PUD (1222 Highway 35 S): The applicant, represented by engineer Brandy Carl, proposes converting the existing Ancient Oaks RV park into a PUD to allow sale of individual lots (The Breakers). The PUD would allow smaller lot sizes than existing zoning (B-1 with Conditional Use Permit). Planned upgrades include removing non-compliant RV pads, adding fire hydrants, looping a city water line, and constructing new concrete streets and utilities from King Street for the north expansion. Staff reported no written comments and the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval. - Item 11 – Rezoning to PUD (1819-1833 S Ann Street): Developer Stuart Lynn (SAL Holdings) seeks a PUD to create lots of 2,500–6,700 sq ft with 45-ft widths, whereas the current R-2 zoning requires 5,000 sq ft and 50-ft widths. Planning and Zoning staff found the application incomplete (missing street names, etc.) and recommended denial due to density incompatibility and community opposition. The developer did not present at the Council meeting. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda, Ordinance 2018 (first reading), Ordinance 2019 (first reading), Resolution 2026-26R, Resolution 2026-28R, Resolution 2026-29R, and Item 10 (rezoning to PUD at 1222 Highway 35 S) were all approved unanimously. - Item 11 (rezoning to PUD at 1819-1833 S Ann Street) was denied unanimously following the motion by Councilmember Brundrett. The denial leaves the property under R-2 zoning, and the applicant may submit a revised plan. - Councilmember Stephanie Rangel (Ward 1) announced her formal resignation effective after the meeting due to a career opportunity requiring relocation. Other councilmembers expressed gratitude for her service. - City Manager Vanessa Shrauner will be out of the office for the following week moving children to Wyoming; Public Works Director Ryan Picarazzi will serve as acting city manager. - The meeting adjourned at 5:48 PM.