Public Meetings - Weatherford, Texas

The Weatherford City Council met in regular session at 6:00 PM on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at City Hall Council Chambers. All council members were present. The meeting included approval of consent agenda items (with several pulled for discussion), public hearings, adoption of ordinances, nomination of appraisal district board candidates, and an executive session regarding code enforcement litigation at 1419 Bankhead Highway. The meeting adjourned at 7:33 PM. Presentations & Proclamations - Mayor Paul Paschall and Councilmembers presented a proclamation designating September 17–23, 2025 as Constitution Week in Weatherford, with the Weatherford chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution in attendance. Consent Calendar (Approved as a Block) - Items 7A, 7D, 7E, 7F, and 7G were approved without discussion: professional services contract with SMEZ84 Consulting ($130,000), legal services contract with Taylor Olson Adkins Sralla & Elam ($400,000), Ordinance O2025-47 amending FY25 budget, Ordinance O2025-46 adopting FY26 fee schedule, and support contract renewal with Azteca Systems ($64,512). All passed unanimously. Discussion Items (Items Pulled from Consent) Item 7B – Purchase of Freightliner Trash Truck ($288,042) - Councilmember Luke Williams asked about the vehicle's age (11-year-old truck with 12,000 hours/360,000 miles) and delivery timing (expected October 2025). Motion to approve passed. Item 7C – Fleet Maintenance Services (RFP 2025-024, up to $125,000 annually) - Councilmember Heidi Wilder asked whether the service agreements overlapped with existing maintenance contracts for leased vehicles. Assistant City Manager Dawn Brooks explained that the agreements expedite service and do not duplicate existing contracts. Approved. Item 7H – Purchase of Brush Truck for Fire Station No. 4 ($334,334) - Councilmember Zack Smith questioned whether the vehicle was 4x4 as stated in the agenda item versus 4x2 as shown on the BuyBoard pricing worksheet. Fire Chief Jonathan Peacock clarified that all brush trucks are 4x4, but the agenda description required verification. The item was approved contingent on confirmation that the chassis is 4x4. Mayor Paul Paschall expressed frustration with the 18–24 month delivery timeline and 10% contingency, calling it an unreasonable business practice but supporting the purchase for public safety. Item 7I – Purchase of Brush Truck for Fire Station No. 5 ($258,290) - Councilmember Williams asked about delivery timeline: 120–150 days for the chassis plus queue time at the builder (Wildfire). The truck will be gas-powered with a 18-horsepower pony motor. Councilmember Wilder asked about the 10% contingency; City Manager James Hotopp clarified it is locally added to cover potential price changes or tariff fees. Approved. Item 7J – Purchase of Police Pursuit Vehicles ($483,660) - Councilmember Smith requested an itemized breakdown of the $260,000 upfitting cost, as the packet only included vehicle prices. Chief Jason Hayes explained the upfits include lighting, push bumpers, breaching tools, and secure storage for K9 vehicles. Councilmember Wilder moved to approve the purchase with a follow-up report at the next meeting detailing the upfit costs. Motion passed. Regular Agenda Items Item 8A – Adoption of Fiscal Year Meeting Schedule - City Manager Hotopp presented the proposed schedule with single meetings in November, December, and July due to holidays. Councilmember Williams argued for two meetings in December and July to ensure availability for citizen business. Councilmember Ticzkus favored the traditional single-meeting schedule, citing efficiency. After debate, a motion to hold two meetings in December (on the 2nd and 16th) and two in July (on the 14th and 28th) and one in November (on the 18th) passed. Item 8B – Nomination of Candidates to Parker County Appraisal District Board of Directors - Council nominated Richard Barrett (incumbent) and Joe Wilkinson (replacing Jerry Durant) for the two open seats. Both were approved unanimously. Item 8C – Ordinance O2025-44 (Zoning Notice/Sign Updates) - Public hearing opened and closed with no comments. The ordinance updates zoning change signage requirements to comply with state law (HB 24). Approved 7-0. Item 8D – Zoning Map Amendment and CUP for 200 Otto Drive - Applicant Robert Stuckey requested a zoning change from AG to C1 with a conditional use permit for a contractor office with outdoor storage. The Planning & Zoning Commission had tabled the item. Council tabled the public hearing and consideration to October 14, 2025, per the applicant's request. Approved unanimously. Item 8E – Ordinance O2025-43 (Central Neighborhood District Amendments) - Public hearing held with no comments. The amendment adds single-family detached dwellings as a permitted use in the CN district, clarifies mixed-use building definitions, and permits household living on upper stories. Approved unanimously. Executive Session - Council entered executive session at 7:14 PM under Texas Government Code §551.071 to consult with the city attorney regarding pending litigation related to property at 1419 Bankhead Highway. Returned at 7:32 PM. Key Outcomes - Votes passed unanimously on all consent items and regular agenda items except as noted. - Directives: City staff to provide itemized upfitting details for police vehicles at the next council meeting. - Referral: The meeting schedule will be adjusted to include two meetings in December and July, with one in November. - Litigation authorization: Council authorized the city attorney's office to file Chapter 54 code enforcement litigation against the property owner at 1419 Bankhead Highway. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made on any agenda or non-agenda items.

The Weatherford Planning & Zoning Commission met on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 2:30 PM in City Council Chambers. The meeting included three agenda items: approval of previous minutes, a zoning ordinance amendment for the Central Neighborhood District, a request for a zoning map amendment and conditional use permit that was tabled, and an ordinance update to comply with new state law notice requirements. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (Item 2a): The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the August 13, 2025, meeting. Discussion Items - Item 3a – Zoning Ordinance Amendment (MCA-25-0007): The commission held a public hearing and considered an amendment to the CN Central Neighborhood District to add single-family detached dwellings as a permitted use and clarify household living uses in mixed-use buildings. Staff recommended approval, noting the compatibility with the existing neighborhood character and the lack of a prior definition for "mixed-use building." No public comments were made. The motion passed unanimously (7-0). - Item 3b – Zoning Map Amendment & Conditional Use Permit (ZCH-25-0011 & CUP-25-0013): The applicant, Robert Stuckey, requested a change from AG Agriculture to C1 General Commercial with a CUP for a contractor office with outdoor storage at 200 Otto Drive. The applicant requested a delay to redo the site plan following engineer guidance. The commission voted unanimously to table the item to the October 8, 2025, meeting. - Item 3c – Ordinance Amendment for Notice Requirements (MCA-25-0008): Staff presented an amendment to Section 12-2-101 to align with House Bill requirements effective September 1, 2025. Changes include posting notices on the city website (in addition to newspaper), requiring sign posting by city staff for all rezoning and CUP requests (previously optional), clarifying comprehensive zone change notice procedures, and updating protest procedures. The commission approved unanimously (7-0). Key Outcomes - Item 3a: Approved – The CN district now permits single-family detached dwellings and defines mixed-use buildings. - Item 3b: Tabled to October 8, 2025, at the applicant's request. - Item 3c: Approved – The zoning notice ordinance is updated to comply with state law. The meeting adjourned at 2:48 PM.

The Weatherford City Council met on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in City Council Chambers at Weatherford City Hall, 303 Palo Pinto Street, Weatherford, Texas. Mayor Paul Paschall presided, and a quorum was present; Councilmember Matt Ticzkus was absent. The meeting included a public hearing on the proposed property tax rate, adoption of the FY2026 budget and tax rate, approval of an auto crimes task force interlocal agreement, an executive session on economic development negotiations, and action on one resulting development agreement. The Council recessed at 7:26 p.m. for executive session, reconvened at 8:44 p.m., and adjourned at 8:46 p.m. Consent Calendar - The Council unanimously approved the minutes of the August 26, 2025, regular City Council meeting. Councilmember Luke Williams made the motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Zack Smith. Items of Community Interest - Aaron Spicer provided community announcements, including: Weatherford Police Department mourning bands for the September 11 anniversary; the Parker County Sheriff’s Posse 21st Annual Ranch Rodeo on September 12–13; Weatherford ISD homecoming on September 19 with a September 18 parade themed “Gold Rush”; free waterwise gardening kits on September 27; the 8th annual Pioneer Heritage Festival on October 4; Movies in the Park on September 12; Concerts in the Park on September 20; Food Park Lounge Night on September 23; and National Night Out on October 7. Presentation: Life Saving Award - Eric Shumar, Director of Municipal and Community Services, presented a Life Saving Award to Stephanie Landers, an animal shelter employee. On the morning of August 20, 2025, a coworker was attacked by a large dog in a kennel area. Landers pulled the dog off the injured employee, secured the animal, provided emergency first aid, called 911, and stayed with the victim at the hospital. Shumar stated that Landers’ intervention saved the coworker’s life and that the survivor, Deb, was present with family and friends to support the recognition. Public Comments & Testimony - Public hearing on the proposed ad valorem tax rate: The hearing was opened and closed with no public comments or questions from attendees. - Citizen comments on non-agenda items: No residents came forward. Public Hearing: Proposed Tax Rate - Assistant City Manager/Chief Financial Officer Dawn Brooks and Budget Manager Ashley Esquivel presented the proposed ad valorem tax rate of $0.392246 per $100 valuation, consisting of $0.295646 per $100 for operations and maintenance and $0.0966 per $100 for interest and sinking (debt service). - Esquivel noted this was the fifth of six years adopting the no-new-revenue rate, with the only exception being the 2023 tax year when the rate was set above no-new-revenue to add 11 public safety positions. The proposed rate is equal to the no-new-revenue rate, would not increase property taxes for properties on the roll in both years, and is below the rate that would trigger an election. No action was required on this item. Discussion Items - FY2026 Budget Adoption (Ordinance O2025-41): Ashley Esquivel presented the City Manager’s proposed budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2025, and ending September 30, 2026. The budget spans 25 funds, supports 15 city departments, and provides for 332 committed employees, excluding electric and water utilities. Combined revenue across all funds totals $83.4 million, with total expenditures expected at $83.2 million. Reserve levels maintain more than 120 days of operating funding, with $15 million accessible beyond that reserve requirement. One change from the originally proposed budget was an additional one-time contribution to the Chamber of Commerce for construction of a new facility. Key investments include three new firefighters, completing a three-year staffing plan for Fire Station 5; an animal control officer, animal care technician, and IT specialist through repurposed mid-management positions with no net FTE increase except firefighters; Love Street splash pad replacement; McGratton Skate Park reconstruction partially funded by a Texas Parks and Wildlife grant; Fire Station 4 exhaust systems and bay painting; $3 million for street repair and improvements; $974,000 for vehicle and equipment replacements; and design costs for animal shelter phase two, Fire Station 5, Lamar Street, Claremont Boulevard, and Kirkpatrick Drive. No construction costs are included at this time. Councilmember Heidi Wilder asked for clarification about construction costs and the parks and wildlife grant; staff responded that bond proceeds would come later and a budget amendment would be brought to Council once project fund amounts are known. The motion by Councilmember Luke Williams, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Zack Smith, passed. - Ratification of Property Tax Revenue Increase: Under Texas Local Government Code Section 102.007, the Council separately voted to ratify the FY2026 budget property tax revenue increase of approximately $615,000. The motion by Councilmember Luke Williams, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Zack Smith, passed. - Adoption of the 2025 Tax Rate (Ordinance O2025-42): The Council adopted an ad valorem tax rate of 39.2246 cents per $100 of valuation for the 2025 tax year (FY2026). The adopted rate is effectively a 1.5% decrease from the previous rate and equals the no-new-revenue tax rate. It includes 29.5646 cents for operations and maintenance of the General Fund and 9.660 cents for debt service. Councilmember Heidi Wilder made the motion, and the item passed. - Tarrant County Regional Auto Crimes Task Force Interlocal Agreement: Chief of Police Jason Hayes requested authorization for the City Manager to execute the 2026 interlocal agreement with Tarrant County. This would be the Weatherford Police Department’s third fiscal year participating in the task force. The task force was established in 1993, has expanded to include burglary of motor vehicles, theft of parts, and vehicle-related fraud, and includes investigators from 14 state and local agencies across seven counties, serving over 2.4 million people. Mayor Pro Tem Zack Smith asked about the value of the $25,000 expense and results over the past three years. Chief Hayes responded that clearance rates for motor vehicle cases increased by 20 to 25 percent since joining, compared with a prior 30 to 40 percent clearance rate, and that the task force provides access to facial recognition software, national databases, and SWAT support. Smith also asked about auto theft rates; Hayes stated auto theft is fairly low at roughly 35 per year and that most involve unlocked cars with keys left inside. The motion by Mayor Pro Tem Zack Smith, seconded by Councilmember Luke Williams, passed. Executive Session & Action on Executive Session Items - The Council entered executive session at 7:26 p.m. under Texas Government Code Section 551.087 to discuss economic development negotiations for “Project Apex” and “Project Numbers.” - After reconvening at 8:44 p.m., the Council took action on Project Apex by approving Resolution R2025-17, authorizing the City Manager to negotiate, finalize, and execute a master development agreement and related documents for a destination and mixed-use development and a qualified convention center and hotel project among the City of Weatherford, the Board of Directors of Tax Reinvestment Zone Number One, and Stellar Development LLC. Councilmember Heidi Wilder made the motion, seconded by Councilmember Luke Williams, and the item passed. - The Council took no action on Project Numbers. Key Outcomes - Approved the minutes of the August 26, 2025, regular City Council meeting. - Adopted the FY2026 City Manager’s Proposed Budget through Ordinance O2025-41. - Ratified the FY2026 budget property tax revenue increase of approximately $615,000 pursuant to Texas Local Government Code Section 102.007. - Adopted the 2025 tax rate of 39.2246 cents per $100 of valuation through Ordinance O2025-42, equal to the no-new-revenue rate and effectively a 1.5% decrease. - Authorized the City Manager to execute the Tarrant County Regional Auto Crimes Task Force Interlocal Assistance Agreement. - Approved Resolution R2025-17 authorizing a master development agreement with Stellar Development LLC for a destination and mixed-use development and qualified convention center and hotel project. - Took no action on Project Numbers. - The meeting adjourned at 8:46 p.m.

The Weatherford Animal Shelter Advisory Committee met on September 4, 2025, at 1:00 PM in City Hall. All members except Jenni Day were present. Dawn Brooks, Assistant City Manager and CFO, joined the committee as a new member. The committee approved the previous meeting minutes, discussed plans for using donation funds, and received updates from shelter staff on operations, renovations, veterinary care, and community events. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the June 19, 2025, meeting, with a motion by Dr. Kathryn Garofalo and a second by Montanna McMasters. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made on non-agenda items. Discussion Items - Donation Fund Planning: Eric Shumar reported that the shelter received two donations of over $100,000 each within a week. Staff proposed using these funds to purchase a new adoption trailer (estimated $80,000 to $100,000) and a vehicle to tow it (estimated $50,000 to $60,000), citing the current trailer and truck are over 20 years old. The trailer could serve adoptions, surgeries, and disaster response. Additionally, staff discussed expanding the spay/neuter program to include dogs, hiring veterinarians for dedicated days, and potentially adding funds to the ongoing shelter remodel. Committee members expressed strong support for the proposals and agreed to move forward with pricing and procurement. Key Outcomes - Approved Previous Minutes: The minutes from June 19, 2025, were approved unanimously. - Donation Fund Next Steps: Staff will obtain pricing for the trailer and vehicle, follow standard purchasing procedures, and bring a recommendation to the City Council. The committee also agreed to revisit shelter remodel plans with donated funds at the next meeting. - Future Meeting: The next regular meeting is scheduled for Thursday, December 4, 2025, at 1:00 PM. Shelter Operations Update Kenzie Redington, Animal Services Manager, introduced new staff: Lindsay Skinner (animal care technician) and Clay Walters (animal control officer). She reported that July and August 2025 data showed a slight increase in animal intake and a 65% increase in return to owners, which is a success compared to national trends. She also described a serious incident where a kennel technician was attacked by a dog with no prior signs of aggression, resulting in severe injuries. In response, new safety protocols were implemented: all staff must carry citronella spray, safety tools are placed in each building, staff cannot work alone in isolated areas, radios were added for communication, and training has been increased (e.g., catch-pole training). Shelter Renovation Update Levi Leal, Animal Services Coordinator, reported that renovations to buildings C (straight hold), D (quarantine), and E (isolation room) are complete, including fresh paint, new floors, and swinging doors for temperature control. Renovations are temporarily paused for planning the future adoption building, with construction expected to begin in late September. Veterinary Report Dr. Stacy McLeod, Shelter Veterinarian, reported an uptick in respiratory illness due to overcrowding and reduced airflow from closed doors. PCR testing identified coronavirus (not COVID-19) as the cause. No vaccine is available for this strain; management focuses on hygiene and isolating affected animals. She noted that this is prolonging length of stay for dogs. Events and Success Stories Amber Wilson, Outreach and Engagement Officer, reported on recent events: Peach Festival (5 adoptions), Clear the Shelters mega adoption event in Fort Worth (6 adoptions), the shelter's own Clear the Shelters event (45 adoptions, 52 total animals leaving), and a library visit. An upcoming trunk retreat is planned for October 18th. She shared a success story: Alan Hall, a U.S. Air Force Reserve veteran, adopted a cat he named Colonel Billy Mitchell and later returned to adopt a second cat, praising the shelter's participation in the Pets for Patriots program.

The Municipal Utility Board met at Weatherford City Hall on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 12:00 PM. Mayor Paul Paschall, Councilwoman Heidi Wilder, and Board Member Tom Novak were absent; a quorum was present. The meeting included an invocation, pledges, a presentation on the Hudson Oaks wastewater project, approval of minutes and consent agenda items, a budget presentation, adoption of the Water and Wastewater Master Plan Update, and an update on the Lake Weatherford Trail System. Public Comments & Testimony - No citizen comments on non-agenda items were made. Presentations & Reports - Wholesale Wastewater Contract Update (Hudson Oaks): Sterling Naron, City Administrator for Hudson Oaks, provided a semi-annual update on the project to connect Hudson Oaks to the new Willow Park wastewater treatment plant. He reported that the treatment plant is under construction and expected to be operational by the end of 2025. Hudson Oaks is building a lift station and force main in two phases, with contractors JRM and FM Utilities on site. Property acquisition and permits (including TxDOT crossings) are complete. The target completion date for Hudson Oaks’ portion is October 2026, though earlier completion is possible. Naron thanked the board and answered questions. - FY26 Proposed Municipal Utility System Budget: Ashley Esquivel presented a brief overview. The proposed budget includes $80.6 million in revenues and $76.3 million in expenses, resulting in a net operating result of $4.3 million. Contributions to capital funds and reserves total $5.5 million (water capital, wastewater capital, electric vehicle reserve, and substation reserve). The 90-day reserve is $11.5 million, with an available balance of $7.7 million. Electric expenses: $49.6 million; water expenses: $17 million; wastewater expenses: $9.7 million. Budget highlights include year two of the phased water and wastewater rate increase, service center restroom upgrades, and capital projects funded by newly issued bonds (e.g., water purification plant phases, elevated storage tank, lift station expansions, Town Creek trunk line). No action was required. - Water and Wastewater Master Plan Update: Bill Smith and Colin Carlson (Freese and Nichols) presented the updated master plan. The plan evaluates current systems, uses a risk-based assessment (RBA) to guide infrastructure rehabilitation, and provides a roadmap for future growth based on population projections (25,000 new residents over 25 years) and land use assumptions. Smith emphasized flexibility to adapt as development changes. Carlson reviewed the methodology: population projections, design criteria, and projected water demand/wastewater flow through 2049-2050. Board member Ken Davis raised questions about the plan’s ability to adapt to changing assumptions and the correlation between the RBA and the board’s 2% annual replacement goal. Staff confirmed they continuously update the model as new development information arrives. The board unanimously approved the master plan. - Lake Weatherford Trail System Phase 0 Update: Bill Smith reported that after evaluating costs, staff revisited an alternate alignment (shown in yellow) that routes the trail through the emergency spillway and on top of the dam, previously set aside due to operational and topographic challenges. After a site visit and coordination with operations, those challenges appear surmountable. The proposed yellow route would connect the Lake Way and Lake Hills neighborhoods to the trail system, bypassing the water plant area. Board members discussed retaining a segment along West Lake Drive for more direct access to the marina. Staff will bring a further update in one to two months. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the July 24, 2025, Municipal Utility Board meeting were approved unanimously. - Consent Agenda Items: The board unanimously approved the following items: - Amendment 1 with Teague Nall and Perkins for additional design services for the Center Point Wastewater Improvements, Phase 3 project (not to exceed $34,250; total contract $304,150; aggregate FY expenditure $606,350). - Amendment 1 with Teague Nall and Perkins for development review services (not to exceed $10,000; total contract $60,000; aggregate FY expenditure $616,350). - Award of RFP 2025-020 Utility Pole Inspection to Davey Resource Group, Inc. (not to exceed $132,000). - Contract with Carollo Engineers for $520,000 (as per agenda item 6.d). Key Outcomes - Water and Wastewater Master Plan Update was adopted unanimously. - The board received the FY26 proposed budget; no action taken. - The Lake Weatherford Trail System update will return with a revised proposal in one to two months. - No action was taken on executive session items. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 1:04 PM.

The Weatherford City Council met at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, in the City Council Chambers at Weatherford City Hall, 303 Palo Pinto Street, Weatherford, Texas. Mayor Paul Paschall presided. Mayor Pro Tem Zack Smith and Councilmembers Heidi Wilder, Matt Ticzkus, and Luke Williams were present, constituting a quorum. The meeting included the FY26 budget public hearing, direction on outside agency funding, a vote to propose the 2025 property tax rate, approval of an animal shelter interlocal agreement with Parker County, multiple zoning and conditional use permit items, and a large consent agenda. The meeting adjourned at 9:09 p.m. Opening, Community Interest, and Minutes - Pastor Steve Bryant of Brownstone Church gave the invocation, and Councilmember Matt Ticzkus led pledges to the U.S. and Texas flags. - Community updates included: the Clear the Shelter event placed 28 dogs and 17 cats (45 animals total); Zipline drone deliveries began near the Walmart on South Main, with the first drop at Fire Station 4; National Night Out is scheduled for October 7 with a Minecraft theme; Food Truck Lounge Night at Heritage Park is set for September 9; the Parker County Sheriff's Posse Ranch Rodeo is September 12–13; and Movies in the Park will show Lilo and Stitch on September 12 at 7 p.m. - The council recognized City Manager James Hotopp's 50th birthday. - The council approved the minutes of the August 12, 2025 regular meeting. Consent Calendar - The council approved consent agenda items 6A through 6L except item 6E, which was pulled for separate discussion. Approved items included: - Ratification of Luke Haynes's appointment and Steve Martin's reappointment to the Weatherford Housing Authority. - Reappointment of Jenni Day, Kathryn Garofalo, and Montanna McMasters to the Animal Shelter Advisory Committee. - Ordinance O2025-30, amending Section 2-1-5 "Posting of Meeting Agendas." - Authorization for C&G Roofing, through TIPS Contract No. 241001-3132, to replace the Fire Station 1 roof for an amount not to exceed $165,200. - Final plat approval for Park Hill West, being 2 lots on approximately 44.327 acres at 411 West Park Avenue. - A professional engineering services contract with Kimley-Horn & Associates, Inc. for Lamar Street Extension design in an amount not to exceed $870,500. - Sole-source purchase of asphalt pavement rejuvenator services from Pavement Restoration Inc. in an amount not to exceed $96,535.89. - Resolution R2025-15, authorizing an agreement with the Texas Department of Transportation for advance funding for maintenance of railroad pavement markings and signs. - Resolution R2025-14, adopting the City of Weatherford Investment Policy and Strategy. - A professional services contract with Halff Associates for Clairemont Boulevard Extension design in an amount not to exceed $1,622,000. - An increase in previously approved funds for asphalt materials from Texas Materials from $450,000 to an amount not to exceed $500,000. - Item 6E, final plat approval for Couts Addition, Lot 3R, Block 51 (one commercial lot on approximately 0.473 acres at 710 South Main Street), was approved separately after Councilmember Heidi Wilder asked about floodplain and drainage concerns. Staff confirmed drainage impacts would be reviewed through engineering analysis when neighboring properties develop. Public Comments & Testimony - Lynn Baber (2126 Timber Cove Court, Weatherford) spoke during the FY26 budget public hearing. She noted budget references to a regional sports complex expected in 2027, plans to sell the old police station, the absence of recently approved 2025 continuing obligation bonds from the bond schedule, and the convention center's "developing" status. She asked for more public information about these potentially expensive projects. - No public speakers came forward during the public hearings for the Holiday World CUP/plat, Weatherford College zoning amendment, auto repair CUP, or Tin Top Road RV Park/Campground request. - During the RaceTrac public hearing, applicant representative Tony Ritigliano presented the revised proposal on behalf of RaceTrac. He stated the company removed 22 truck parking spaces, removed the CAT scale, and reduced the store size from roughly 8,000 to 6,000 square feet. He expressed the company's interest in opening its second Weatherford store. FY26 Budget Public Hearing (7A) - Budget Manager Ashley Esquivel presented the proposed FY26 budget. She confirmed the budget was filed with the City Secretary, the hearing notice was published in the Weatherford Democrat, and the budget was available at City Hall, the library, and the city's website. - The proposed FY26 general fund includes $55.8 million in revenues and $55.7 million in expenditures, producing a marginal surplus of approximately $47,000. - The projected ending fund balance is $32.6 million, equivalent to 229 working days of operation, with $15 million accessible under the city's 120-day reserve requirement. - Sales tax revenue is projected at $22.3 million, a 4.3% increase from the prior year. The budget uses the no new revenue property tax rate of 0.392246 per $100 of assessed value, a 0.15% reduction from the current rate. Staff noted this is the fifth time in six years the city has proposed or adopted a no-new-revenue rate. - Public safety accounts for about 50% of general fund spending; development services and economic development account for 6%; and support services account for 14%. - Key proposed investments include three new firefighters, an animal control officer, an animal care technician, and an IT specialist; Love Street Park splash pad replacement; reconstruction of the McGratten Park skate park, partially funded by a Texas Parks and Wildlife grant; Fire Station 4 exhaust system and bay painting; $3 million for street repair and improvements; and $974,000 for vehicle and equipment replacements. Design costs are included for animal shelter improvements phase two, Fire Station 5, Lamar Street, Clairemont Boulevard, and Kirkpatrick Drive, with no construction costs included. - Councilmembers asked about the compensation absences reserve and long-term debt service coverage, requesting a historical review and a forward-looking discussion at the 2026 council retreat. No action was required on 7A. Outside Agency Funding Direction (7B) - Staff presented FY26 funding requests from Casa Hope, the Chamber of Commerce, the Children's Advocacy Center of Parker County, Doss Heritage, Freedom House, Manis Store House, and the Parker County Committee on Aging. - General fund requests are capped at $25,000 total and $5,000 per organization; hotel occupancy tax funded requests are not subject to the same limits. Funding for the requests was included in the proposed budget. - City Manager James Hotopp recommended a $250,000 hotel-motel tax contribution to the Chamber of Commerce's new building fund, citing the chamber's role in business retention and tourism promotion and compliance with the state's "Texas two-step" hotel tax rules. - Councilmember Zack Smith advocated for $500,000 from hotel-motel tax funds, describing them as "other people's money" paid by visitors. Councilmember Heidi Wilder supported the $500,000 amount and asked that the existing $150,000 allocation also remain funded. Mayor Paschall supported the chamber as a proven community partner. - No formal vote was taken on 7B; council directed staff to prepare the budget with the general fund requests as presented and the additional $500,000 chamber building fund allocation for consideration at the September 9 budget adoption meeting. Vote to Propose the 2025 Property Tax Rate (7C) - Assistant City Manager/CFO Dawn Brooks presented the truth-in-taxation step. The no-new-revenue rate is 39.2246 cents per $100 of taxable value, and the voter approval rate is 50.1813 cents. - The proposed no-new-revenue rate of 39.22 cents would generate an estimated tax liability of $1,154. Staff noted this is the fifth time in six years the council has proposed a no-new-revenue rate, with the exception being a three-cent increase to fund 11 new public safety positions. - The council voted to propose the FY26 tax rate of 39.2246 cents per $100 of valuation. The vote results and the September 9 public hearing and adoption dates will be published in the Weatherford Democrat, along with each council member's vote. Parker County Animal Shelter Interlocal Agreement (7D) - Director Eric Shumar presented a new interlocal agreement for animal shelter services with Parker County. The existing agreement dated to 2000 and included a 10% annual increase limit. - Parker County currently pays the city $729,000 per year but accounts for approximately 70% of annual animal intake, while contributing about 42.5% of the shelter budget, leaving the city to cover about 50%. - The new agreement includes a three-year step-up period: approximately $856,000 in year one (80% of the calculated full share), 90% in year two, and 100% thereafter, with annual true-ups based on the prior year's intake. Salaries for animal control officers and certain revenues would be excluded from the calculation. - A termination letter was delivered to Parker County by September 1, effective October 1, 2025, but staff said the county was open to continuing the partnership. - Councilmembers asked how the additional revenue would be used. Staff responded that the FY26 budget includes two new shelter positions — an animal control officer and an animal care technician — and that the increased revenue would offset those costs and help fund ongoing shelter renovations and capital improvements. The agreement does not require Parker County to participate in capital projects because the city retains ownership of the shelter. - Councilmember Heidi Wilder moved approval; Mayor Pro Tem Zack Smith seconded. The motion passed. Holiday World Conditional Use Permit (7E) - The council held a public hearing and approved Ordinance O2025-38, a conditional use permit for HWH Real Estate Holdings for recreational vehicle display, sales, or repair on approximately 26.31 acres at 2328 East Interstate 20. The proposal had been approved about three years earlier but the prior CUP expired. - The site plan includes new RV displays along the interstate, pre-owned RVs interior to the property, and service RVs screened behind fencing and worked on inside. The conditions were the same as the previous approval. - Councilmembers asked about the long access strip to Bankhead; staff confirmed it would be used for dual ingress/egress and would be required before a certificate of occupancy. - Councilmember Luke Williams moved approval with conditions; Councilmember Matt Ticzkus seconded. The motion passed. Holiday World Preliminary Plat (7F) - The council approved the corresponding preliminary plat for Holiday World, creating one lot on approximately 26.31 acres at the same East Interstate 20 location. - Staff added a condition requiring the applicant to correct an access easement that was not shown properly before recording. Councilmember Matt Ticzkus moved approval with the easement correction; Councilmember Luke Williams seconded. The motion passed. Weatherford College Planned Development Zoning (7G) - The council held a public hearing and approved Ordinance O2025-40, a zoning map amendment from C1 General Commercial and R1 One Family Residential to PD Planned Development for several Weatherford College properties: approximately 1.87 acres at 205 East Park Avenue, 0.30 acres at 207 East Park Avenue, 11.4 acres along Martin Drive, 0.50 acres at 1403 Sloan Street, and a portion of a 55.905-acre tract along the west side of Texas Drive. - Staff said the college is pulling properties it already owns into its existing PD zoning for long-term campus plans. Councilmember Heidi Wilder asked whether the existing PD restrictions would apply to the newly added properties; staff confirmed they would. - Councilmember Zack Smith moved approval; Councilmember Matt Ticzkus seconded. The motion passed. The mayor noted Weatherford College will provide a campus update in September. Auto Repair Conditional Use Permit at 113 South Line Street (7H) - The council held public hearings and approved Ordinance O2025-37, a conditional use permit for Jason Kuritz for auto repair on approximately 1.192 acres at 113 South Line Street. - The property is currently operating as a body shop under a temporary special use permit. The temporary tent at the upper repair area will expire in December; the CUP would allow the applicant to construct a permanent structure there if desired, subject to current development standards. - Staff recommended conditions including a commercial-quality visual screening fence along the US 180 corridor. Council discussion raised concerns about corridor compatibility, landscaping requirements, parapet walls, and existing standards for businesses along Fort Worth Highway/US 180. Staff confirmed any new construction would have to meet current setback, landscape, lighting, and irrigation requirements. - Councilmember Zack Smith moved approval as presented by staff, with conditions; Councilmember Luke Williams seconded. The motion passed. Denial of Tin Top Road RV Park/Campground Expansion (7I) - The council held a public hearing and denied Ordinance O2025-34, a request by James McDonald for a general plan and zoning map amendment from C1 General Commercial to C2 Interstate Commercial and a conditional use permit for an RV park/campground expansion on approximately 10.97 acres at 2205 Tin Top Road. - The site contains an existing legal non-conforming RV campground. The applicant requested expansion by 28 lots. The Planning and Zoning Commission and staff recommended denial, finding the proposed interstate commercial use incompatible with nearby uses. Staff noted dirt work had begun on the property and was stopped after the CUP requirement was identified. - Councilmember Luke Williams moved to deny the application, allowing the existing non-conforming campground to continue operating without the expansion. Councilmember Heidi Wilder seconded. The motion passed; a yay vote was for denial. RaceTrac Fueling Station Conditional Use Permit (7J) - The council held a public hearing and approved Ordinance O2025-39, a zoning map amendment from AG Agriculture to C2 Interstate Commercial with a conditional use permit for a fueling station on approximately 7.341 acres at 1825 Old Brock Road. - Applicant representative Tony Ritigliano presented the revised RaceTrac plan, which removed 22 truck parking spaces, removed the CAT scale, and reduced the store from approximately 8,000 to 6,000 square feet. The station will offer gasoline and diesel under separate canopies. - Staff recommended conditions modeled on other fueling stations in the city, including restrictions on truck-stop-style diesel advertising. Councilmembers asked about the company's loitering policy; the representative said RaceTrac has a policy and would provide it to city staff. Councilmembers praised the applicant for responding to Planning and Zoning and council feedback. - Councilmember Luke Williams moved approval with conditions; Mayor Pro Tem Zack Smith seconded. The motion passed. RaceTrac Weatherford Preliminary Plat (7K) - The council approved the corresponding preliminary plat for RaceTrac Weatherford, creating one lot on approximately 7.341 acres at the northeast corner of Ric Williamson Memorial Highway and Interstate 20, with the conditions included in the packet. Councilmember Heidi Wilder moved approval; Councilmember Luke Williams seconded. The motion passed. Key Outcomes - Approved the August 12, 2025 regular meeting minutes. - Approved consent agenda items 6A–6L, with 6E pulled and separately approved. - Approved the proposed FY26 no-new-revenue property tax rate of 39.2246 cents per $100 for the public hearing and final adoption process. - Approved the Parker County animal shelter interlocal agreement with a three-year step-up in fees. - Approved the Holiday World CUP and preliminary plat, the Weatherford College PD zoning amendment, the South Line Street auto repair CUP, the RaceTrac CUP, and the RaceTrac preliminary plat. - Denied the Tin Top Road RV park/campground expansion request; the existing non-conforming campground may continue without expansion. - Directed staff to include outside agency funding as presented and to add a $500,000 hotel-motel tax contribution to the Chamber of Commerce building fund. - No action was required on the FY26 budget public hearing; the next meeting on September 9, 2025, is scheduled for the public hearing on the proposed tax rate, adoption of the FY26 budget, and final tax rate adoption. - The posted executive session items (9A and 9B) concerned economic development negotiations under Texas Government Code Section 551.087 for Project Apex and Project Numbers; no action was reported following the executive session items.

The Planning & Zoning Commission of Weatherford, Texas, held a regular session on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at 2:30 PM in City Council Chambers. Chair Brian McKeown presided with a quorum present. The commission considered eight regular agenda items, including public hearings, conditional use permits, zoning map amendments, and plats. All items except one were approved unanimously; a request to expand an existing RV park was denied. Approval of Minutes - The commission unanimously approved the minutes of the July 16, 2025, meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Selinda Buck (903 Austin Court, Weatherford) spoke during the public hearing on item 3.c (Weatherford College zoning amendment). She expressed concern about potential increased traffic on Texas Street and asked if a traffic study had been conducted. Staff explained that traffic studies are not required at the zoning stage but will be addressed during later engineering review. Discussion Items - Item 3.a – Conditional Use Permit for RV Display/Sales (Holiday World): The applicant sought a CUP for RV sales and repair on a 26.31-acre tract at 2328 East Interstate 20. Staff recommended approval subject to three conditions. The previous CUP had expired due to lack of construction. The commission opened and closed the public hearing with no speakers and voted unanimously to approve as presented with conditions. - Item 3.b – Preliminary Plat for Holiday World: Related to the previous item, a preliminary plat for one lot on the same 26.31 acres was approved unanimously. Staff noted the southern protrusion is for a future transportation route. - Item 3.c – Weatherford College Zoning Map Amendment: The college requested a zoning map amendment from C1 and R1 to PD Planned Development for multiple parcels totaling approximately 69.5 acres, including an amendment to permit a five-story building. Staff recommended approval. The applicant, John Stark (facilities director), stated the college intends to use the properties for future athletic facilities and other college purposes. The property adjacent to the Department of Safety (DOS) is on a ground lease with the college. After public comment, the commission voted unanimously to approve. - Item 3.d – Final Plat for Couts Addition (Lot 3R, Block 51): A final plat for a 0.473-acre commercial lot at 710 South Main Street was approved unanimously. - Item 3.e – Final Plat for Park Hill West: A final plat for two lots on 44.327 acres at 411 West Park Avenue was approved unanimously. The plat includes a dedicated right-of-way for a future connection to Lamar Street, part of the city's thoroughfare plan. - Item 3.f – Conditional Use Permit for Auto Repair: The commission approved a CUP for an automotive body shop on 1.192 acres at 113 South Line Street. The property currently operates under a 90-day special use permit related to a storm event. Conditions include screening from US 180. Staff supported the use as an incremental improvement to the corridor. - Item 3.g – Zoning Map Amendment and CUP for RV Park/Campground Expansion: The applicant requested a zoning change from C1 to C2 and a CUP to expand an existing RV park on 10.97 acres at 2205 Tin Top Road. The existing park is a legal non-conforming use. Staff recommended disapproval due to incompatibility with surrounding development. After discussion, the commission voted unanimously to deny. Commissioners noted disapproval would avoid expansion while allowing the current non-conforming use to continue. The applicant had proposed conditions including chip-and-seal paving and a 6-foot screening fence, but the motion to deny prevailed. - Item 3.h – Zoning Map Amendment and CUP for Fueling Station (RaceTrac): The applicant revised the proposal from a full truck stop to a fueling station on 7.341 acres at 1825 Old Brock Road. Changes included removal of truck parking and scales, reduction of store footprint from 8,100 to 6,100 sq ft, and four dedicated diesel lanes. Staff recommended approval with conditions. The commission opened and closed the public hearing with no speakers. Discussion included ensuring no overnight parking. The applicant committed to signage prohibiting overnight parking. The motion to approve included adding a condition for no overnight parking signage. The vote was unanimous. - Item 3.i – Preliminary Plat for RaceTrac Weatherford: A preliminary plat for two lots (to be combined into one) on 7.341 acres at the northeast corner of Ric Williamson Memorial Highway and Interstate 20 was approved unanimously. Conditions include coordination with Encore electrical infrastructure. Key Outcomes - Approved (all unanimous): Minutes; Holiday World CUP (3.a); Holiday World preliminary plat (3.b); Weatherford College zoning amendment (3.c); Couts Addition final plat (3.d); Park Hill West final plat (3.e); Auto repair CUP (3.f); RaceTrac fueling station CUP (3.h); RaceTrac preliminary plat (3.i). - Denied (unanimous): RV park expansion (3.g) – Commission accepted staff's recommendation of disapproval. - The meeting adjourned at 3:30 PM.

The Weatherford City Council held a regular meeting on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at 6:00 PM at City Hall. The council approved the consent agenda, received the FY26 proposed budget, accepted the tax year 2025 property tax rates, authorized the publication of notice for up to $30 million in certificates of obligation, and adopted an ordinance to close an alley. After executive session, the council approved a lease for property at 548 Santa Fe Drive. The meeting adjourned at 8:23 PM. Consent Calendar - Appointment of Assistant City Manager Dawn Brooks to the Animal Shelter Advisory Committee as the municipal official representative. - Renewal of the support contract with Tyler Technologies for municipal software systems, services, and licenses, not to exceed $450,000. - Approval of Resolution R2025-11 authorizing City of Weatherford representatives to perform activities associated with bank accounts and investment pools. - Approval of Ordinance O2025-28 amending Title IX, Chapter 11, section 9-11-1 park general regulations. - Award of contracts for Financial Advisory (Hilltop Securities) and Bond Counsel (McCall Parkhurst & Horton, LLP) services related to Texas Water Development Board financing programs for a three-year term. - Adoption of Resolution R2025-12 to deny a proposed rate change by Texas Gas Service Company. Public Comments & Testimony No members of the public spoke during the public hearing on the alley abandonment (Item 7d) or during the citizen comments on non-agenda items. Discussion Items - FY26 Proposed Budget Presentation: Chief Financial Officer Dawn Brooks presented the proposed budget for fiscal year 2026. Combined revenues across all funds are projected at $77.5 million, with expenditures of $75.6 million. The general fund is balanced with $55.8 million in revenues and $55.7 million in expenditures, resulting in a marginal surplus of $47,000. Fund balance is projected to end FY25 at $32.6 million, equivalent to 235 working days, with $15 million accessible beyond the 120-day reserve. The budget adds three firefighters (completing a three-year staffing plan for Fire Station 5), an animal control officer, an animal care technician, and an IT specialist. Capital projects include Love Street Park splash pad, McGrattan Park reconstruction, and design costs for future priority projects. The proposed tax rate of 39.2246 cents per $100 valuation is the no-new-revenue rate, a 0.5% reduction from last year. Personnel costs are 60% of the budget; contractual services 34%; supplies 4%; capital outlays 2%. Public safety remains the top priority. - Tax Year 2025 Property Tax Rates: The council accepted the notice of tax rates. The no-new-revenue rate is 39.2246 cents per $100 of taxable value, a decrease of approximately two-thirds of a cent from 2024. The voter approval rate is 50.1813 cents. The total tax base increased to $5.3 billion (8.41% increase) with $124 million in new improvements. The proposed rate would generate an estimated $1,154 tax liability for the average home valued at $294,321. - Certificates of Obligation (Resolution R2025-13): The council approved the authorization to publish notice of intention to issue up to $30 million in certificates of obligation for four priority projects: Lamar Street and Claremont Boulevard improvements ($18 million), Fire Station 5 ($10 million), Holland Lake Park renovation ($2.5 million), and a public works equipment storage facility ($1.5 million). Annual debt service is estimated at $2.4 million, fitting within capacity from maturing obligations. Staff noted that 48.7% of community survey respondents listed roads as their top priority, and the projects align with council strategic priorities. - Alley Abandonment Ordinance (O2025-36): After a public hearing with no comments, the council adopted an ordinance closing, vacating, and abandoning a portion of an alley in Block 5 of Mutual Realty Company Subdivision, to allow the property owner at 207 East Sixth Street to combine parcels and replat. Key Outcomes - Approved the minutes of the July 22, 2025 regular meeting (motion by Luke Williams, second by Matt Ticzkus). - Approved all consent agenda items (6a-6f) unanimously. - Accepted the Notice of Tax Year 2025 Property Tax Rates (motion by Matt Ticzkus, second by Mayor Pro Tem Zack Smith). - Approved Resolution R2025-13 authorizing publication of notice for Certificates of Obligation, Series 2025, not to exceed $30 million (motion by Luke Williams, second by Zack Smith). - Adopted Ordinance O2025-36 closing an alley (motion by Matt Ticzkus, second by Luke Williams). - After executive session, approved a lease for property at 548 Santa Fe Drive and authorized the city manager to execute it (motion by Heidi Wilder, second by Luke Williams). No action was taken on other executive session items (Project Apex and Project Numbers). The council also recognized Assistant City Manager Brad Burnett on his retirement after 20 years of service (10 with the city), with comments from the city manager and mayor highlighting his contributions to fiscal stewardship.

The Weatherford Public Library Board was scheduled to meet on Monday, July 28, 2025, at the Weatherford Public Library, 1014 Charles Street, Weatherford, TX. The agenda listed a 1:00 PM start; the provided meeting metadata timestamp is 2025-07-28 19:00:00+00:00 (2:00 PM CDT), a discrepancy in the source materials. Agenda items included approval of the minutes, library updates and FY2026 goals, the Director’s Report, citizen comments, and the next meeting date. No minutes were provided, and the available raw transcript contains only “Mm-hmm.”, so no deliberations or votes can be confirmed from the record. Discussion Items - Library Updates and FY2026 Goals (Agenda Item 3.a) – Erin Spicer, Director of Library Services, was listed to lead this discussion. No substantive discussion appears in the available record. - Director’s Report (Agenda Item 4) – The agenda listed an update on the Summer Reading Challenge (4.a) and library key performance indicators (4.b). No substantive details were captured in the transcript. Public Comments & Testimony - Citizen comments on non-agenda items were listed as Agenda Item 6, but no public comments appear in the available transcript. Key Outcomes - Agenda Item 2 (approval of the minutes) was listed; whether the board approved the minutes is not confirmed because no minutes were provided and the transcript contains no substantive discussion. - No votes or decisions can be confirmed from the available record. - The next regular meeting was scheduled for October 27, 2025, as announced under Agenda Item 5.a.