Public Meetings - Rockport, Texas

The Rockport City Council held a regular meeting on July 14, 2026, at 5:00 PM at City Hall. Key actions included approval of water and wastewater rate increases, extension of a water shortage emergency, denial of a heritage district drive-through variance, and denial of a development impact fee variance. A rezoning request was continued to a future Planning and Zoning meeting after a public hearing with significant opposition. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the June 23, 2026 Budget Workshop and Regular Meeting. - Approved Resolution 2026-24R appointing Investment Officers and designating training courses. - Approved Resolution 2026-25R adopting an Investment Policy and Strategy. Public Comments & Testimony - Rezoning Request (3810 Hwy 35 S): During the public hearing, Chad Kacer, representing Palm Harbor Property Owners Association, expressed opposition to rezoning from R-1 to R-5, citing concerns about drainage, setbacks, sewer connections, and lack of detailed plans. The mayor read the names of 20 other individuals who submitted written comments opposing the rezoning. No speakers expressed support during the hearing. The item was postponed for further information from the applicant. - Heritage District Drive-Through: The applicant (Quick Ventures LLC) spoke in favor of their request to install a drive-through at 902 E. Market, noting that nearby businesses have drive-throughs. Staff (Amanda Torres) opposed the request, stating it violates the heritage district overlay code and that work had been started without a permit. The item was initially postponed to after executive session and later denied. - Development Impact Fee Variance: Brandy Carl, engineer for Park Place Development, argued that the project was mid-process when rules changed and that they followed Fulton's procedures, not Rockport's, but did not meet the final plat deadline. The owner, Darren Shanley, also spoke. Staff recommended denial, citing clear ordinance language and precedent with other developments. Discussion Items - Water and Wastewater Rate Increases (Ordinances 2014 & 2015): Approved on second reading. Finance Director Robbie Sorrell explained these rates are needed to maintain utility operations. No public discussion. Unanimous votes. - Itinerant Merchant Ordinance (Ordinance 2016): Approved on second reading with no changes. Chief Anderson confirmed no changes. Unanimous. - Charitable Solicitation Ordinance (Ordinance 2017): Approved on second reading with no changes. Unanimous. - Rezoning Request (3810 Hwy 35 S): Staff presented the request to rezone from R-1 to R-5. Planning and Zoning Commission had postponed action, so this meeting was only a public hearing; no vote was taken. The item will return to Planning and Zoning for further discussion. - Planning and Zoning Commission Appointments: Consideration of Resolution 2026-26R. Council member Matt Anderson requested time to interview applicants to ensure commitment. The item was postponed to the next meeting. - Water Shortage Emergency Extension: City Manager Vanessa Shrauner requested a 90-day extension. Council member Matt Anderson assured residents that staff is working on long-term solutions. Approved unanimously. - Heritage District Drive-Through (Item 13): Staff (Amanda Torres) explained that the proposed drive-through is not allowed under the heritage district code without a design exception. Work had been started without permits, and there were other compliance issues with the applicant. After discussion and a brief executive session, the council denied the application, but suggested the applicant reapply after consulting with staff. - Rockport Aquarium Concept Design: Elle Morales from Aransas County presented the 100% design for an aquarium at 704 Navigation Circle. The project is on schedule to go out for bids on July 23. No action was required. - Development Impact Fee Variance (Item 15): The council denied a variance request from Park Place Development. The ordinance requires a final plat to be filed before adoption (August 2025) to be grandfathered; the final plat was filed in June 2026. Council noted potential precedent issues. Unanimous denial. Key Outcomes - Approved: Consent agenda, water rate ordinance (2014), wastewater rate ordinance (2015), itinerant merchant ordinance (2016), charitable solicitation ordinance (2017), and water shortage emergency extension (90 days). All votes were unanimous. - Denied: Heritage District drive-through application (unanimous) and development impact fee variance (unanimous). - Postponed/Continued: Rezoning request (3810 Hwy 35 S) to future Planning and Zoning Commission meeting; Planning and Zoning Commission appointments to next city council meeting after interviews. - Presented: Rockport Aquarium concept design; no action taken. - Next Steps: Council member Matt Anderson will host a Ward 2 community meeting on July 23 at Bella Labrew Coffee Bar at 5 PM.

The Rockport City Council held a regular meeting on June 23, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the Council Chambers at City Hall. The meeting included ceremonial recognitions, approval of consent agenda items, first readings of ordinances regarding water and wastewater rate increases and merchant regulations, a groundwater study presentation, appointment of a new Mayor Pro Tem, and an executive session. All votes taken during the open session were unanimous (4-0) with four council members present (Wards 2, 3, 4, and the Mayor; Ward 1 was absent). Ceremonial Matters - Proclamation – Roy Allen: Mayor Tim Jayroe read a proclamation honoring Roy Allen for his 22 years of service with Castaways Thrift Store, including as board president. Mr. Allen and his wife Carol have lived in Rockport since the 1960s; he retired and continues his community service. - Tenure Tuesday: City Manager Vanessa Shrauner presented five-year service certificates to Belinda Garcia (one year in utilities – corrected during meeting), Tony from Parks and Recreation, and Police Officer Austin Jensen (who arrived late and was sworn in later). - Flag and Flagpole Presentation: Kimberly Henry, Assistant to the City Manager, announced the Rockport Center for the Arts donated flags and a 50-foot flagpole to the city. - Swearing-In of Police Cadets: Police Chief Nathan Anderson swore in Cadets Cameron Daley and Charles Chavez, who graduated from the Del Mar Police Academy on June 18, 2026. Both are Rockport residents. They will undergo 16 weeks of field training before being solo officers. Consent Calendar - Item 5: Approved Resolution 2026-R accepting the second quarter investment report. (Motion and second; passed unanimously.) - Item 6: Approved the City Council minutes from the May 26, 2026, regular meeting. (Passed as part of consent.) Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items - Item 7 – Water Rate Increase (Ordinance 2014, First Reading): The council considered a water rate increase for all inside city limits customers based on the Wildan Water Rate Study. Finance Director Robbie Sorrell noted a dangling sentence had been removed from the ordinance. Councilmember Brad Brundrett (Ward 3) read responses to citizen questions regarding transparency (noting multiple public workshops), the rate structure change due to the pass-through fee, and the elimination of volume allowance. Mayor Tim Jayroe explained that the city had not previously passed on many increases from San Pat Water District, and this increase catches the city up. The motion passed unanimously 4-0. (Councilmember Matt Anderson, Ward 2, participated via video and voted in favor.) - Item 8 – Wastewater Rate Increase (Ordinance 2015, First Reading): The council considered a wastewater rate increase for both inside and outside city limits customers, also based on a Wildan study. Staff presented the same information as the water rate item. Passed unanimously. - Item 9 – Itinerant Merchants Ordinance (Ordinance 2016, First Reading): Police Chief Nathan Anderson explained the amendment to Chapter 74, Article II, which tightens rules to prevent individuals from using solicitor licenses to solicit personal donations or engage in personal fundraising. The ordinance prohibits such use and coordinates with charitable solicitation regulations. Passed unanimously. - Item 10 – Charitable Solicitations Ordinance (Ordinance 2017, First Reading): A companion amendment to Chapter 74, Article III, clarifying the definition of charitable purpose, limiting permits to organized charitable campaigns, and requiring certification against personal benefit. Passed unanimously. - Item 11 – Amendment No. 2 with Alliance for Community Services (ACS): Kimberly Henry presented a request for $45,226 to complete audio visual and security equipment installation at City Hall. Sufficient funds existed from under-spent engineering and professional services budgets. Passed unanimously. - Item 12 – Groundwater Feasibility Study Presentation: Representatives from Freeze and Nichols (Adam Connor and Teresa Budd) presented findings on groundwater options in Aransas County. They identified four potential well field alternatives (shallow and deep aquifers) with production capacities ranging from 0.51 to 3.59 million gallons per day. All options would require reverse osmosis treatment due to slightly saline water. Capital cost estimates ranged from lower to higher based on well count and pipeline distances, with per-thousand-gallon costs higher than current surface water. Recommendations included exploratory drilling, numerical modeling for drawdown, and future blending studies. No council action was taken; the presentation was for information only. - Item 13 – Parks and Recreation Update: Director Brittany Aguirre was absent due to family commitments; the item was deferred to a future meeting. - Item 14 – Appointment of Mayor Pro Tem: Councilmember Andrea Hattman (Ward 4), the outgoing Mayor Pro Tem, nominated Councilmember Brad Brundrett (Ward 3) for the position, stating it was time to pass the torch. The nomination was seconded and approved unanimously. Mr. Brundrett accepted and thanked Ms. Hattman for her service. - Item 15 – City Manager's Monthly Update: Vanessa Shrauner highlighted the new Human Resources Manager (Chelsea Welch), noted the fleet building is nearly complete, mentioned ongoing development activity (though no construction yet), and reported that recent rains pushed Corpus Christi's Level 1 water emergency to September 2027. A water information webpage is now live on the city's website. - Council Reports: Councilmembers provided brief updates on ward activities, including a TML Region 11 meeting hosted by Rockport, appreciation for drainage improvements at the country club, and recognition of an Austin Street community meeting. Key Outcomes - Water Rate Increase (Item 7): Approved first reading unanimously. (Ordinance 2014) - Wastewater Rate Increase (Item 8): Approved first reading unanimously. (Ordinance 2015) - Itinerant Merchants Ordinance (Item 9): Approved first reading unanimously. (Ordinance 2016) - Charitable Solicitations Ordinance (Item 10): Approved first reading unanimously. (Ordinance 2017) - ACS Amendment (Item 11): Approved $45,226 for AV/security equipment. - Mayor Pro Tem Appointment (Item 14): Brad Brundrett elected. - Groundwater Study: Received for information; no action taken. - Executive Session: The council recessed into executive session at 5:47 PM to discuss the duties, responsibilities, and potential reassignment of the Assistant to the City Manager (Texas Government Code §§ 551.071, .072, .074, .076, .087, .089). The meeting adjourned at 6:12 PM with no action taken following the executive session.

The City of Rockport City Council held its fifth budget workshop on June 23, 2026, to review the FY2026-2027 budget, including Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) grant recommendations, economic outlook, capital project updates, and outstanding budget topics. The meeting was led by City Manager Vanessa Shrauner and included presentations from Finance Director Robbie Sorrell and Public Works Director Ryan Picarazzi. Discussion Items - HOT Grant Funding Recommendation: City Manager Shrauner presented the committee's recommendations. External organizations requested a total of $764,891; overall requests (including internal items) totaled $1.9 million. Estimated HOT tax collections are $1.5 million. The committee recommended $349,000 for external organizations, with administrative fees of approximately $182,893, Visitor Center funding reduced from $60,000 to $55,000, CDB (Community Development Block) reduced from $800,000 to $750,000, and Parks events cut from $100,000 to $50,000 (with an additional $50,000 from the general fund). Total recommended awards reach $1.38 million, leaving room for a proposed full-time position ($90,000) staying near the $1.5 million target. Council discussed flexibility in fund usage for organizations like RCAD and the theater, and noted that advertising requests were denied. The maximum allowable expenditure for arts is $400,000, but only $22,000 was recommended for sports tourism. Staff expressed comfort with the 1.5 million estimate and encouraged maintaining the 365-day reserve policy. - Economic Environment and Preliminary Revenue Estimates: Finance Director Sorrell presented preliminary estimates. Property tax growth is capped at 3.5%, sales taxes estimated at 4%, sanitation revenues at 4%, and HOT collections are improving due to better enforcement. The CPI rose to 4.2%, well above the 3.5% cap for M&O. Consumer confidence is below 50%. The total tax rate is preliminarily 0.426475, with a voter-approved rate of 0.417808. The average taxable value increased by $18,000 while market value rose by $5,000. Debt service is projected to drop significantly from $5.1 million to $2.9 million by 2029 as City Hall debt matures. Total all-funds budget is projected to decrease from $59 million to $53 million (a 10% drop), with the general fund down 13% before adding capital items. - Capital Projects Update: Public Works Director Picarazzi provided updates on FY25-26 projects, including drainage pipe lining, purple pipe project, and park irrigation. Regarding the $800,000 set aside for parks, the pickleball association reversed its request—now asking the city not to build new courts at Memorial Park, but instead to contribute $250,000 to rehab existing school courts. Council debated the merits: some favored funding city-owned parking improvements ($60,000–$80,000 estimate) rather than spending heavily on school property; others expressed interest in supporting pickleball if it brings tournaments. City Manager Shrauner recommended directing the park funds primarily to parking at Memorial Park and continuing discussions with the pickleball association. - Outstanding Budget Topics: Council discussed the reserve fund: after the gas sale revenue, reserves exceeded 180 days, but pulling $200,000 for parks reduced them to 200 days. There was debate about using reserves to lower the tax rate. Staff committed to providing updated tax rate impact calculations before the next meeting. Key Outcomes - Council generally accepted the HOT grant funding recommendations, with flexibility allowed for organizations to reallocate awarded amounts among approved programs. - Staff was directed to prioritize parking improvements at Memorial Park with the $800,000 capital fund, and to continue exploring pickleball options with the school district, withholding final commitment. - The next budget workshop (6) was scheduled for July 28, 2026, at 3:30 PM, followed by a regular council meeting at 5:00 PM. A possible additional workshop may be held on July 14, 2026, at 3:30 PM. The final budget and tax rate adoption meeting is set for August 11, 2026. - Finance Director Sorrell will provide council with the impact of the $200,000 reserve use on the no-new-revenue tax rate prior to the July 14 meeting. - No formal votes were taken; decisions were made via consensus and staff direction.

The Rockport City Council held a regular meeting on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at 5:00 PM at City Hall. Mayor Tim Jayroe presided and offered remarks on his return to the council dais following a medical absence. The Council addressed a citizen concern regarding data centers, accepted a ceremonial recognition from the Navigation District, and unanimously approved several action items including a budget amendment, a street sweeper lease, and new city policies. Consent Calendar - Minutes: The Council unanimously approved the minutes from the May 12, 2026 Workshop and Regular Meeting. - Resolution 2026-21R: The Council unanimously approved a resolution updating the Council on energy utility legislative issues as summarized by the Texas Coalition for Affordable Power. Public Comments & Testimony - Jeff Hood (Citizen): Expressed strong opposition to the potential development of a data center in Rockport, citing an industry publication (Clean View) listing Rockport as a proposed site. He requested the Council pass a non-binding resolution against data centers and implement a moratorium on providing city utilities for such projects, citing environmental concerns (temperature increases and water usage) seen in other communities. Discussion Items Ceremonial Matters - Aransas County Navigation District: Chairwoman Judy Melassic and Board Secretary Jack Wright thanked the Council for a centennial proclamation and presented commemorative challenge coins to each council member, affirming the partnership between the District and the City. Ordinances, Resolutions and Public Hearings - Ordinance 2012 (TMRS Benefits — Final Reading): The Council unanimously approved a final reading allowing certain city employees to buy back previously canceled Texas Municipal Retirement System service credit. - Resolution 2026-20R (Employee Mentoring Leave): The Council unanimously adopted a policy permitting city employees one hour of paid leave per week to mentor at the Rockport-Fulton Independent School District, a program council members strongly supported for its community and student engagement benefits. - Resolution 2026-22R (Cybersecurity Agreement): The Council unanimously approved an interlocal agreement with the UT Rio Grande Valley Regional Security Operations Center (RSOC). The agreement provides an additional layer of no-cost network security through a state-sponsored grant. Budget Related Item - Ordinance 2013 (CVB Budget Amendment): The Council unanimously approved a budget amendment transferring additional funds to the events budget. City Manager Shrauner explained that a $100,000 allocation for events was inadvertently combined with the $600,000 CVB budget during the initial budget adoption. The amendment corrects the funding for the current fiscal year. Other Action Items - Street Sweeper Lease Purchase (Item 7): The Council unanimously approved a nine-year lease-purchase agreement with Government Capital Corporation for a new street sweeper at a total payout of $54,207 and a 4.915% interest rate. Existing appropriated funds will be used to advance the payment schedule by one year. Delivery of the new sweeper is expected by early June. - Boards and Commissions Appointments (Item 8): The Council discussed the process for filling expiring June 2026 terms on the Planning & Zoning, CBOA, and Building boards. A consensus was reached on a hybrid process: council members will solicit applicants from their wards, board liaisons will conduct interviews, and the full council will provide final approval. City Manager's Update - Water Status: Recent rainfall delayed the anticipated Corpus Christi Level 1 water emergency from September to December. The city's public water usage dashboard is now active. - Police Statistics: The City Manager noted that the PD issued more warnings than tickets and highlighted that the 16-24 age group was the most compliant. - Travel: City Manager Shrauner announced she would be chaperoning a school band trip for the remainder of the week. City Council Report - Ward 2 (Councilmember Anderson): Reported that Ward 2 is doing well. - Ward 3 (Councilmember Brundrett): Reported on attending the TML Small Cities Conference in Bastrop, covering topics such as data centers, water concerns, and legislative procedures. Key Outcomes - The Council unanimously approved the Consent Calendar. - The Council unanimously approved Ordinance 2012 (TMRS), Resolution 2026-20R (Mentoring Leave), and Resolution 2026-22R (Cybersecurity). - The Council unanimously approved Ordinance 2013 (Budget Amendment) and the street sweeper lease purchase. - The Council directed the City Secretary to implement the hybrid process for upcoming board and commission appointments.

The Rockport City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at 5:00 PM and adjourned at 6:26 PM. The meeting included ceremonial proclamations, unanimous approval of several routine items, a detailed discussion regarding water curtailment equity from the City of Corpus Christi, and an executive session for legal and real estate matters. Following the executive session, the Council authorized the City Manager to negotiate long-term water solutions. Ceremonial Matters - Mayor Pro Tem Andrea Hattman proclaimed May 10th through May 16th, 2026, as National Police Week, honoring the 27 sworn officers of the Rockport Police Department and noting the 113 officers who died in the line of duty in 2025. - Mayor Pro Tem Hattman also proclaimed May 2026 as Historic Preservation Month, encouraging participation in the county's historic preservation award ceremony. - City Manager Vanessa Shrauner recognized Gracie Garcia (Utility Billing) for ten years of dedicated service as part of the "Tenure Tuesday" program. Robbie Sorrell accepted the recognition on her behalf. Consent Calendar - The Council unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included the approval of the April 28th Regular Meeting minutes, the April 29th Budget Workshop minutes, and Resolution 2026-17R ratifying the assignment of the City's interest in the CNG station contract. Discussion Items - Ordinance 2012 (TMRS Benefits): Council approved the first of two readings of an ordinance allowing approximately 17 eligible city employees who previously cashed out their Texas Municipal Retirement System membership to buy back their service credit. City Manager Shrauner explained the buyback includes a penalty of roughly 5% per year. The vote was unanimous. - Ordinance 2011 (Traffic and Speed): Council unanimously approved the second and final reading of an ordinance amending Chapter 98 regarding speed regulations. Police Chief Nathan Anderson confirmed no changes were made since the first reading. - Resolution 2026-18R (BarCom IT Services): Council approved a month-to-month managed information technology services agreement with BarCom. City Manager Shrauner stated the City will transition from a two-person IT staff to a one-person in-house specialist supplemented by the managed contract, following the loss of the IT director. The contract has a 30-day cancellation clause. - Resolution 2026-19R (Water Curtailment Equity): Brian Williams, former General Manager of the San Patricio Municipal Water District, presented a resolution opposing the City of Corpus Christi's proposed water curtailment ordinance structure. He argued the proposed baselines would disproportionately burden wholesale customers, providing Rockport residents (10,439 customers) a lower per-gallon baseline than Corpus Christi residents. The resolution requests that wholesale customers be treated equitably to Corpus Christi's residential, commercial, and industrial users. The resolution was approved unanimously. The City of Portland has already passed a similar resolution, with other area cities scheduled to follow. - Extension of Water Emergency Declaration: Council unanimously approved a 30-day extension of Proclamation 27-057O, maintaining the Water Emergency Declaration to preserve expedited regulatory capabilities during the ongoing drought conditions. City Council Reports - Councilmembers Rangel (Ward 1), Anderson (Ward 2), and Brundrett (Ward 3) had no items to report. - Councilmember Hattman (Ward 4) thanked the Parks Department and Devin for coordinating a successful May 8th community cleanup with the high school junior class along Tule Creek, and promoted the upcoming Bates on the Bay weekend event. Executive Session and Subsequent Action - The Council recessed into Executive Session at 5:29 PM. The session was held pursuant to Texas Government Code sections covering consultation with the City Attorney (water issues), real property (vicinity of Pearl Street), personnel matters, security, economic development negotiations, and IT security. - Reconvening at 6:26 PM, the Council carried a motion authorizing the City Manager to begin contract negotiations for long-term water solutions for the City of Rockport. The meeting then adjourned. Key Outcomes - Approvals: Consent Agenda; Ordinance 2012 (1st Reading); Ordinance 2011 (2nd & Final Reading); Resolution 2026-18R (BarCom IT Services); Resolution 2026-19R (Water Equity); 30-day Water Emergency Extension. - Directive: City Manager authorized to negotiate long-term water supply contracts. - Vote Tallies: All recorded votes during the open meeting were unanimous (4-0).

The Rockport City Council met for its fourth FY 2026-27 budget workshop on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. The workshop was called to order at 1:04 p.m. and adjourned at 2:54 p.m. It was a discussion-and-direction session; no formal ordinances were adopted. Staff presented updated data on property taxes, hotel occupancy tax revenues, water and wastewater rates, the COPS grant, debt capacity, parks projects, and the budget calendar. Council consensus was to work toward a tax rate at or below the voter-approved rate, with a goal of reducing the current rate. Taxpayer Impact Statement - Per the agenda, the required statement reflects the prior year's budget process because FY 2026-27 figures were not yet available. - For a median-valued homestead of $338,830: current FY 2024/25 property tax bill $1,373.26; estimated FY 2025/26 bill if the proposed budget is adopted $1,445.03; estimated bill if a balanced budget is adopted at the no-new-revenue rate $1,299.91. Public Comments & Testimony - Jennifer Day, Executive Director of the Rockport Cultural Arts District, raised concerns about accountability of Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) funds spent on city events. She said nonprofits receiving HOT funds must file quarterly reports but city-held events are not equally scrutinized. She cited Open Records data for the city's kite festival: $6,174 in FY 2022-23; $10,004 in FY 2023-24, including a $6,000 HOT allocation; $10,207 in FY 2024-25; and $15,207 shown in the HOT transparency report for the one-day event, excluding city payroll and resources. She argued the HOT allocation calculation uses an $11 average nightly room rate as transcribed, and does not include short-term rental average rates, which she said are about $293. She urged Council to preserve nonprofit event support and apply equal accountability to city events. Property Valuation and Tax Rate - The current tax rate is $0.426475 per $100 valuation. Staff modeled debt-service and tax-rate options using available debt capacity of approximately $1,598,450, created by $264,137 of freed-up debt service. - Using all available debt would increase the rate to about $0.431331. - Using 50% of the available debt, about $800,000 with $132,068 in debt service, would lower the rate to $0.425744. - Using 75% would raise the rate slightly to about $0.428. - Using about $400,000 would lower the rate further. - Council directed staff to target the 50% debt option and a lower tax rate. Staff agreed to email the estimated effect on an average home tax bill before the next meeting. Hotel/Motel and Short-Term Rental Revenues - Short-term rental revenues are a larger driver of hotel/motel tax revenues than hotel revenues and historically account for more than 50% of those taxes. - Current hotel/motel tax revenues are running ahead of last year, largely because of catch-up collections after a previous billing-system conversion. A separate HOT budget workshop will be held later. Water and Wastewater Rates - Staff presented updated rates based on council guidance: a 5.1% increase in May/June and a 7.2% increase in October, with the water cost pass-through included. - For an inside-city residential customer using 5,000 gallons of water and wastewater: the current bill is $97.33; the May/June increase would add $4.93, bringing the bill to $102.26; the October increase would add $7.33, bringing it to $109.59. - The rate model includes a $4.48 water cost pass-through. Outside-city customers would not be affected until October. Rates will be adjusted when the new wholesale water rate is received. - The utility fund is currently losing about $50,000 per month from utility reserves, not from a general fund subsidy. If no action is taken, the monthly loss is projected to grow to $150,000 in January. The five-year rate plan is intended to stop the deficit and repay funds taken from reserves. Water and sewer sales and gallons continue a downward trend. COPS Grant and Police Staffing - Staff presented a three-year COPS grant opportunity for up to five officers. The grant total is about $500,000; total cost for five officers is roughly $3 million over the grant period, with the city share about $2.4 million. - One-time gas-sale proceeds would cover first-year capital costs such as vehicles and equipment. Police are authorized for 27 street officers and are currently one short; street officers were last added around 2004-2005. The grant expires in September 2030, and officers could be hired as late as October 2027 while still receiving full grant funding. - After discussion, Council directed staff to proceed with five officers under the grant. One councilmember initially favored delaying the grant, but ultimately supported it after clarification that hiring could be phased and the focus would remain on lowering the tax rate. Gas-Sale Proceeds, V&E, and Debt Prepayment - Gas-sale proceeds are planned to bring reserves to about 200 days, above the city's 180-day target, fund vehicle and equipment needs, and cover the first year of the COPS grant. - Staff recommended against prepaying the 2014-2015 GO refinance certificates, about $1.2 million, because their remaining interest rates are 2.9% and 2.3%, lower than current borrowing costs of roughly 3% to 3.5%. Council did not direct early payoff. Parks and Debt-Funded Improvements - Parks staff presented a menu of projects at Memorial Park and the 40-acre property. Council consensus was to keep development centralized at Memorial Park for now. Any sale of the 40 acres would require voter approval, and no sale decision was made. - Council directed staff to build a package around roughly: - $400,000 for two playscapes at Memorial Park, including safety surfacing if it fits within that amount; - $200,000 for a quad pickleball court complex; - $140,000 for Memorial Park field renovations for baseball, softball, and soccer; - a temporary parking solution tied to the pickleball project, with a longer-term study of permeable and grant-funded parking at Memorial Park. - Permanent expanded parking at the back of Memorial Park was discussed but not funded this year because it needs road, drainage, and engineering work. A 38-foot community Christmas tree at the plaza, estimated at $65,000, was discussed as a possible HOT-funded or county-supported item. Council also asked staff to compile real tournament impact data, such as hotel and sales-tax effects, to support future park and sports-tourism investments. Other Budget Items - Staff proposed adding $30,000 to the general fund and $30,000 to the utility fund, $60,000 total, for grant writing, grant match, and related engineering costs. - Staff plan to ask Council to adopt a resolution, with the budget, ending post-65 retiree health insurance for employees hired after October 1, 2026, while grandfathering current employees and retirees. - Staff reported a preliminary S&P credit-rating call focused on water issues; no downgrade or rating action was indicated, and the city will work to protect its rating because it affects future borrowing. Budget Calendar and Next Steps - No budget workshop will be held on May 26. - A work session is scheduled for June 9 at 3:30 p.m. before the regular council meeting to review refined park numbers and tax-rate effects. - The HOT funds budget and distribution workshop is scheduled for June 23 at 1:00 p.m. - Staff will update the budget calendar with state-mandated budget meetings. Key Outcomes - Council directed staff to prepare water-rate ordinances using the 5.1% May/June and 7.2% October increases. - Council directed staff to pursue the full five-officer COPS grant, using gas-sale proceeds for first-year costs. - Council directed staff to use about $800,000 of available debt capacity for parks, while lowering the tax rate from $0.426475 to $0.425744. - Early payoff of the 2014-2015 refinance certificates was not recommended and was not directed. - No formal votes were taken; these are staff directions for the FY 2026-27 budget process. Note on Transcript Content - The raw transcript also includes the beginning of a separate regular Rockport City Council meeting later the same day. In that segment, Carl Brown, president of the South Rockport Neighbors, invited the council to a police memorial at 11 a.m. on Friday. This summary otherwise focuses on the 1 p.m. budget workshop.

The Rockport City Council held its third Budget Workshop on April 29, 2026, at City Hall. The primary focus was a review of the preliminary FY 2026-2027 property tax valuation, debt rate analysis, and proposed policy changes to the Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) funding program. Public Comments & Testimony - Formal citizen participation time was held at the start of the meeting, but no members of the public provided testimony on agenda items at that time. A citizen present later in the meeting noted their questions had been covered by the council's discussion. Discussion Items Property Tax Valuation and Tax Rate Analysis - Diane presented preliminary valuation data. A new state exemption for business personal property (increased from $2,500 to $125,000) resulted in over $31 million in exemptions for 2026, compared to $6.1 million the prior year. - The preliminary No-New-Revenue Tax Rate was calculated at 0.411474, and the Voter-Approved Tax Rate at 0.421523, both below the current rate of 0.426475. - The average market value of a residential property rose to $469,280 (from $385,148), but the projected average city tax bill under the voter-approved rate is estimated to decrease by approximately $197. - Staff noted that limited growth and high inflation continue to erode the city's purchasing power, with CPI and growth exceeding the 3.5% revenue cap. Debt Rate Analysis and Use of Gas Sale Proceeds - Council reviewed the fund balance and the potential use of $4.1 million in gas sale proceeds. - Funding Priorities: Staff proposed funding $1.4 million in Vehicle & Equipment replacements and $2.7 million to fully fund a federal grant for four new police officers, including associated vehicles and equipment. - Fund Balance Impact: Using the gas sale proceeds would reduce the general fund reserve from 349 days to 203 days, still above the 180-day charter requirement. - Debt Capacity: The payoff of an older debt freed up $264,137 in annual debt service, creating capacity for roughly $1.6 million in potential new borrowing without raising the overall debt service level. - Council members requested a detailed report on the interest rates of specific GO REF bonds to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of paying off old debt. - Parks and recreation projects were noted as potential candidates for funding using the freed-up debt capacity. FY 2026-2027 Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) Funding Program - Staff (Nanette and Shelley) presented proposed changes to the HOT grant program structure. - Enhanced Accountability: A new application portal and mandatory reporting (quarterly and final reports) were proposed to comply with state oversight. - Tracking Overnight Stays: Events would be required to use room blocks or promo codes to document overnight visitor stays. A points-based scoring system was introduced to standardize evaluations. - Funding Formula: A proposed formula caps funding based on total room nights and an average daily rate, dividing the resulting revenue by a multiplier of 7. - Focus: The program will aim to support weekday events and build a sports tourism sector. - Phased Rollout: Staff recommended phasing in changes gradually, removing a previously proposed three-year event roll-off, and allowing new events a grace period before funding adjustments. - Timeline: Applications for the new program cycle will open on May 4, 2026, with a deadline of May 29, 2026. Community Survey - Council decided to postpone the proposed community survey, agreeing that current priorities are clearly established and a survey would be more useful in the upcoming fiscal year. Key Outcomes - Scheduled Meeting: The next Budget Workshop was scheduled for May 12, 2026, at 1:00 PM, immediately preceding the regular council meeting. - Direction to Staff: Staff was directed to produce refined budget scenarios incorporating the requested debt analysis for the next meeting. - Policy Direction: Council broadly supported the proposed direction for the HOT program, favoring phased implementation and enhanced data collection to ensure state compliance.

The Rockport City Council held a Regular Meeting on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at 5:00 PM at Rockport City Hall. The meeting included ceremonial proclamations, unanimous approval of the consent agenda, the first reading of a speed ordinance, authorization for a police grant, correction of an economic development agreement payment, and ratification of windstorm insurance. Council also gave guidance on water rate increases, approved generator project funding, and heard a presentation on brackish water desalination. The meeting recessed into executive session at 6:39 PM and adjourned at 8:04 PM. Consent Calendar - The City Council unanimously approved the Consent Agenda (Items 3-8), which included ratification of previous meeting minutes and actions, approval of Hotel Occupancy Tax Grant Second Quarter Reports, and the ratification of a Memorandum of Understanding with Aransas County for the Community Center and Celebration Plaza. Proclamations - Mayor Pro Tem Andrea Hattman proclaimed May 3-9, 2026, as National Tourism Week in Rockport, recognizing Nanette of the CVB for her marketing contributions to the community. - Mayor Pro Tem Hattman proclaimed May 3-9, 2026, as Municipal Clerk Week in Rockport, honoring City Secretary Shelley Goodwin and her office for their dedication and service. Ordinances, Resolutions, and Public Hearings - Ordinance 2011 (Speed Limits): The public hearing was opened at 5:05 PM and closed at 5:07 PM with no public comment. The Council unanimously approved the first reading of the ordinance amending traffic speed provisions. The second reading is scheduled for the next meeting. - Police Grant Authorization (Item 10): Resolution 2026-14R was unanimously approved, authorizing the Rockport Police Department to apply for an $85,095.70 grant from the Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority for a mobile surveillance camera system. Police Chief Anderson stated the system has no facial recognition or license plate reader technology and includes a 10-year subscription. The grant requires no local match. - Pearl Point Phase 2 Agreement Correction (Item 11): Resolution 2026-15R was unanimously approved, authorizing a payment of $67,382.50 to Pearl Point Phase 2. Finance Director Robbie Sorrell explained the payment corrects an administrative error where Phase 2 was mistakenly placed on Phase 1's declining reimbursement schedule, resulting in underpayment over three years. Funds are available within the current budget. - Tax Assessor-Collector Appointment (Item 12): Resolution 2026-16R was unanimously approved, appointing Aransas County Tax Assessor-Collector Anna Marshall to calculate the City of Rockport's effective tax rate for the 2026-2027 tax year. Discussion Items - Windstorm Insurance Ratification (Item 13): The Council unanimously ratified a windstorm insurance renewal through GSM Insurors for $516,163.70. The policy provides coverage for insured property valued at $50,216,496 and reduces the deductible from 3% to 1% (down from a high of 7.5% in prior years). Councilmember Brundrett highlighted the city obtained "more than double the insurance for half the cost" by negotiating outside of hurricane season. The premium was paid in advance to support the vendor relationship. - Water Rates Update (Item 14): Finance Director Sorrell presented options for water rate increases to address a $50,000 monthly shortfall. Following discussion on resident impact and an anticipated 4% increase from Corpus Christi, the Council reached a consensus to guide staff toward a 5% increase in May 2026 with a cost pass-through mechanism. A formal ordinance will be drafted for future readings. - Generator Project Funding Gap (Item 15): The Council unanimously approved $511,791.10 to cover a cost escalation gap for a FEMA/COVID-19 hazard mitigation generator project. Public Works Director Ryan Picarazzi noted the gap is due to delays between the 2022 grant award and 2025 funding. Funds will be appropriated from the Utility Fund and General Fund reserves, with potential for full grant reimbursement within six months. - Brackish Water Desalinization Presentation (Item 16): The Council received a presentation from City of Alice City Manager Michael Esparza on Alice's development of a brackish water reverse osmosis plant. He detailed a partnership with Seven C's Water Group, which financed and operates the plant, providing drought-resistant water at a predictable cost. Business Development Director Rosanna Ramirez highlighted the fixed-rate structure (+CPI) and Category 5 hurricane-resistant construction. The information was received for planning Rockport's long-term water strategy. City Manager's Update - City Manager Vanessa Shrauner reported that a public water information webpage is under development to centralize updates on regional water conditions and city initiatives. The city is entering its budget season. City Council Reports - Councilmember Anderson (Ward 2): Reported on a community cleanup in Wandering Oaks and recognized the retirement of long-time bond consultant Bob Henderson. - Councilmember Rangel (Ward 3): Reported on the health fair 5K and encouraged participation in the upcoming Tulip Creek cleanup on May 8th involving 25 local students. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda (Items 3-8): Approved unanimously. - Ordinance 2011 (Speed Limits): First reading approved. Second reading to follow at next meeting. - Resolution 2026-14R (Police Grant): Application authorized for $85,095.70. - Resolution 2026-15R (Pearl Point): Underpayment of $67,382.50 authorized and corrected. - Resolution 2026-16R (Tax Assessor): Appointment of Anna Marshall approved. - Windstorm Insurance Renewal: Ratified at $516,163.70. - Water Rates (Guidance): Consensus for a 5% increase in May 2026 with cost pass-through. - Generator Project Gap: Funding of $511,791.10 approved from reserves. - Executive Session: The Council recessed at 6:39 PM and reconvened at 8:04 PM after consulting with the City Attorney on impending water issues and Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone 1, and discussing personnel matters regarding the Information Technology Director.

The Rockport City Council held a regular meeting on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the Council Chambers at City Hall. Mayor Pro Tem Andrea Hattman presided in the absence of Mayor Tim Jayroe. The meeting included ceremonial proclamations, employee recognition, a public hearing and vote on a speed limit change, appointments to the Zoning Board of Adjustment, approval of a development agreement for the Passport Shores subdivision, and detailed discussions on water rate subsidies and tax rate effects. The council entered executive session at 6:10 PM to discuss personnel, real property, and water matters. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the March 17, 2026 Regular Meeting, March 24, 2026 Workshop, and March 24, 2026 Regular Meeting. - Approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Aransas County for the coordinated use and management of the Community Center and Celebration Plaza. (Approved by unanimous vote.) Public Comments & Testimony - Judge Garza addressed the council, expressing support for the city's careful evaluation of water supply options. He clarified that Aransas County has no authority over water supply decisions, which rest solely with the city and water providers. However, if water supply fails, it becomes an emergency management issue and the county will coordinate response and resources to protect public health and safety. He commended the council's focus on long-term sustainability and pledged the county's support for the city's decision-making process. Ceremonial Matters & Proclamations - Week of the Young Child (April 11–17, 2026): Proclaimed jointly by the City of Rockport, Town of Fulton, and Aransas County. - National Public Safety Telecommunication Week (April 12–18, 2026): Proclaimed. Councilmembers expressed appreciation for dispatchers. - Sexual Assault Awareness Month (April 2026): Proclaimed. Upcoming events noted: Zapatos Rojos (Red Shoes) art installation at Celebration Plaza (April 15–26) and SART training on April 23. - Recognition of Captain David Gerloff: Awarded the Law Enforcement Command Officer Profession (LECOP) designation 179. Chief Anderson noted he is one of 179 out of over 83,000 peace officers in Texas to earn this designation. - Tenure Tuesday: Recognized Veronica Faria for 15 years of service in the city's 911 communications center. - Tree City USA: Rockport named Tree City USA for the 27th consecutive year. - Whooping Crane Strut Check Presentation: Presented $1,785 to the Friends of Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, from 357 participants in the 37th annual Whooping Crane Strut on March 7, 2026. Discussion Items 10. Speed Limit on Broadway (25 to 30 mph) Police Chief Nathan Anderson presented a traffic study conducted March 4–12, 2026, showing an average speed of 30.67 mph and an 85th percentile speed of 31 mph on the 25-mph roadway. Of 8,180 vehicles recorded, 1,331 were at or below 25 mph. A public hearing was held with no speakers. Councilmembers Stephanie Rangel (Ward 1) and Matt Anderson (Ward 2) expressed support based on resident feedback, noting that the lower speed limit has been burdensome. The council unanimously approved the first of two readings of Ordinance 98-66 to raise the speed limit to 30 mph. 11. Appointments to Zoning Board of Adjustment Councilmember Brad Brundrett (Ward 3) interviewed six applicants. He recommended Michael Harm (Ward 2), Carrie Gatrick (Ward 3), and Tracy Bachmann (at-large) for appointment, noting that other applicants were better suited for different boards. The resolution (2026-13R) also included reappointments. The council unanimously approved the appointments. 12. Development Agreement for Passport Shores City Manager Vanessa Shrauner presented a utility service agreement for the Passport Shores subdivision (180 homes) planned outside city limits beyond Palm Harbor. The agreement reserves water and sewer capacity (LUEs) for 10 years at $500 per LUE. The developer purchased existing LUEs from another developer. Councilmembers clarified that impact fees will be due at platting, and the subdivision will be required to annex voluntarily if the city limits expand to its borders. This is the first such capacity reservation agreement, intended to manage system capacity. The council unanimously approved the agreement. 13. Update on Water Rate Subsidy Finance Director Robbie Sorrell reported that, according to rate consultant Dan Jackson, the utility system is projected to lose $50,000 per month in 2026, escalating to $150,000 per month in 2027, without any debt payments or rate adjustments. He outlined that using gas fund proceeds to subsidize operations would only create a larger hole; the preferred strategy is to implement rate increases and a pass-through mechanism for purchased water costs from the City of Corpus Christi, which faces significant increases and potential curtailments. Councilmembers discussed the trade-offs: - Councilmember Andrea Hattman (Ward 4) favored a 3% immediate increase followed by a 7.5% increase in October 2026, allowing time for the city to develop a long-term water plan and provide clearer communication to residents. - Councilmember Anderson (Ward 2) supported the 3% plus pass-through approach, emphasizing the importance of managing the deficit. - Councilmember Rangel (Ward 1) requested a comparison chart for 3%, 4%, and 5% immediate increases and their impacts on the monthly deficit and October rate. - Councilmember Brundrett (Ward 3) reiterated the need to address the pass-through mechanism to automatically capture rising water purchase costs. The council reached consensus to bring a formal action item to the next council meeting (April 26 or 28) with options for a modest immediate increase (3%–5%) combined with a pass-through. The proposed rate plan from Jackson also reduces capital capacity from $50 million to $24 million and draws down fund balance to lower the needed increase. 14. Update on Tax Rate Effects Sorrell explained that proceeds from the gas fund sale (approximately $4.1 million) could be used to offset borrowing for capital projects, effectively covering about 2.6 cents of the tax rate—meaning the city can fund these projects without raising the rate by that amount. He stressed that this is not a reduction of the current rate but avoidance of a larger increase. Councilmembers agreed on careful messaging. Staff will provide a preliminary tax rate impact sheet for the April 29 budget workshop. City Council Report - Councilmember Anderson (Ward 2) reported positive resident feedback on city services and thanked departments for responsiveness. - Councilmember Hattman (Ward 4) emphasized the council's diligent work on water issues and assured the public that decisions are being made with careful due diligence. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously. - Ordinance to Raise Speed Limit on Broadway to 30 mph: First reading approved unanimously after a public hearing with no opposition. Second reading to be held at a future meeting. - Resolution 2026-13R (Zoning Board of Adjustment Appointments): Approved unanimously. - Development Agreement for Passport Shores: Approved unanimously. - Water Rate Subsidy: No formal vote taken; council directed staff to prepare a resolution for the next meeting incorporating a 3% to 5% immediate increase and a pass-through mechanism for purchased water costs. The resolution will include scenarios showing the effect on monthly deficit and the October 2026 rate. - Tax Rate Effects: No action taken; staff will present a preliminary tax rate impact sheet at the April 29 budget workshop. - Executive Session: Council recessed into executive session at 6:10 PM to discuss appointee performance evaluations, the purchase/lease of real property near Pearl Street, and pending water issues.