Small Cities Advisory Council Meeting Minutes
Texas Municipal League
Small Cities Advisory Council
MINUTES
June 26, 2011
Texas Municipal Center – Austin, Texas
Introductory remarks:
- The TML Small Cities Advisory Council (SCAC) Chair Roy McDonald welcomed members and called the meeting to order at 5:05 p.m.
- SCAC members present:
- Chair Roy McDonald, Mayor, West Orange
- Vice-Chair Tom Blazek, City Manager, Rockport
- Quinn Alexander, Mayor, Canyon
- Gerry Boren, City Manager, Gun Barrel City
- Jared Bryan, Mayor, Morgan’s Point Resort
- Robert Cervenka, City Manager, Robinson
- Joe Cordina, Mayor, Parker
- Kim Dobbs, Assistant City Manager, Heath
- Eddie Daffern, Mayor, Staples
- Randy Daniel, Mayor, Athens
- Andres Garza, Jr., City Manager, Wharton
- Jeff Looney, City Manager, Fairfield
- Dan Looten, Mayor, Panhandle
- Larry Pippen, City Administrator, Karnes City
- TML President-Elect Leonard Reed, Mayor, Willis
- Leo Smith, City Administrator, Bangs
- Brad Stafford, City Manager, Navasota
- Sherrie Williams, Mayor Pro Tem, Iowa Park
- André Wimer, City Manager, Port Neches
- Greg Wortham, Mayor, Sweetwater
- Buddy Zavesky, Mayor Pro Tem, Goliad
- Visitors/staff present:
- Steve Fisher, Marketing Manager, BuyBoard
- Nancy Hempel, City Secretary, Martindale
- Sue Pippen, Karnes City
- Michael Stelly, Chief of Police, West Orange
- Bennett Sandlin, Executive Director, TML
- Karla Vining, Associate Executive Director, TML
- Rachael Pitts, Director of Member Services, TML
- SCAC members not present:
- Walter Bowen, Mayor, Lake Worth (staff notified)
- Roger G. Garza, Councilmember, Pleasanton (staff notified)
- Joe Hermes, Mayor, Edna (staff notified)
- Lorenzo Hernandez, Mayor, Presidio
- Robert C. Maddox, Mayor, Memphis (staff notified)
- Brenda Samford, City Manager, Carthage (staff notified)
- Brett Shannon, City Manager, Decatur (staff notified)
- Ken Thomas, City Manager, Early (staff notified)
Consider excused absences:
Motion made by Joe Cordina, seconded by Leonard Reed, and passed unanimously to excuse the absences of members who had notified the staff.
Consider minutes of February 11, 2011, meeting:
Motion made by Randy Daniel, seconded by Buddy Zavesky, and passed unanimously to approve the minutes of the February 11, 2011, meeting.
Executive Director’s report:
Bennett Sandlin updated members on the annual conference site selection process and provided an overview of major legislation passed during the 2011 regular session of the Texas legislature.
BuyBoard – Local Government Purchasing Cooperative:
Steve Fisher encouraged small cities to participate in BuyBoard.
Special projects:
Rachael Pitts briefed members on the TML Small Cities’ Problem-Solving Clinic schedule, the SolutionsNet listserv, and the TML workshop tuition scholarship program. Rachael also shared information about a vacancy on the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality’s Municipal Solid Waste Management and Resource Recovery Advisory Council.
Next SCAC meeting:
The next meeting of the SCAC will be held on Tuesday, October 11, 2011, in conjunction with the TML Annual Conference and Exhibition in Houston. The meeting will be held at the Hilton Americas Hotel and will begin at 5:00 p.m. A reception will follow the meeting.
Other business:
Roy McDonald announced vacancies on the SCAC for city officials in regions 3, 4, 5, 8, 10, and 12.
Since there was no other business to come before the SCAC, the meeting adjourned at 6:05 p.m.
Texas Municipal League
Small Cities Advisory Council
MINUTES
February 11, 2011
Renaissance Austin Hotel – Austin, Texas
Introductory remarks:
- The TML Small Cities Advisory Council (SCAC) Chair Roy McDonald welcomed members and called the meeting to order at 12:25 p.m.
- SCAC members present:
- Chair Roy McDonald, Mayor, West Orange
- Vice-Chair Tom Blazek, City Manager, Rockport
- Walter Bowen, Mayor, Lake Worth
- Gary Brown, City Manager, Floydada
- Jared Bryan, Mayor, Morgan’s Point Resort
- Joe Cordina, Mayor, Parker
- Eddie Daffern, Mayor, Staples
- Randy Daniel, Mayor, Athens
- Jim “Fitz” Fitzgerald, Councilmember, Alpine
- Andres Garza, Jr., City Manager, Wharton
- Joe Hermes, Mayor, Edna
- Ken Irwin, Alderman, Laguna Vista
- Jeff Looney, City Manager, Fairfield
- Dan Looten, Mayor, Panhandle
- Robert C. Maddox, Mayor, Memphis
- Leonard Reed, Mayor, Willis
- Ken Thomas, City Manager, Early
- Greg Wortham, Mayor, Sweetwater
- Buddy Zavesky, Mayor Pro Tem, Goliad
- Visitors/staff present:
- Jim Carse, Regional Urban Forester, Texas Forest Service
- John Castillo, Councilmember, Lockhart
- Crystal Davis, Coordinator of Special Events, Texas Forest Service
- Larry Hoover, Councilmember, Trophy Club
- Jerry Marshall, Rotan
- Mary Ann Marshall, Rotan
- Jason Robinson, Rural Ombudsman, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
- Jim Rooni, Chief Regional Forester, Texas Forest Service
- Bill Rose, Mayor, Trophy Club
- Connie White, Mayor, Trophy Club
- Bennett Sandlin, Executive Director, TML
- Karla Vining, Associate Executive Director, TML
- Rachael Pitts, Director of Member Services, TML
- SCAC members not present:
- Francene Allen-Noah, Mayor, Snyder (staff notified)
- Jeff Caldwell, City Administrator, Martindale
- Robert Cervenka, City Manager, Robinson (staff notified)
- Kim Dobbs, Assistant City Manager, Heath (staff notified)
- Roger G. Garza, Councilmember, Pleasanton
- Lorenzo Hernandez, Mayor, Presidio (staff notified)
- Dulani Masimini, Mayor Pro Tem, Forest Hill
- Larry Pippen, City Administrator, Karnes City (staff notified)
- Brenda Samford, City Manager, Carthage (staff notified)
- Margie Scott, Commissioner, Electra (staff notified)
- Brett Shannon, City Manager, Decatur (staff notified)
- Brad Stafford, City Manager, Navasota (staff notified)
- Sherrie Williams, Alderman, Iowa Park (staff notified)
- André Wimer, City Manager, Port Neches (staff notified)
Special presentation:
Chair Roy McDonald presented former SCAC member Jerry Marshall with a certificate of appreciation for his service on the SCAC.
Consider excused absences:
Motion made by Andres Garza, Jr., seconded by Randy Daniel, and passed unanimously to excuse the absences of members who had notified the staff.
Consider minutes of October 26, 2010, meeting:
Motion made by Dan Looten, seconded by Andres Garza, Jr., and passed unanimously to approve the minutes of the October 26, 2010, meeting.
Executive Director’s report:
Bennett Sandlin briefed members on the progress of the 2011 Texas legislative session and provided a forecast of the top city-related issues the state legislature will likely consider.
Small Business and Environmental Assistance Division, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ):
Jason Robinson introduced his newly formed position at the Small Business and Environmental Assistance Division at TCEQ.
Texas Emerging Communities Program, Texas Forest Service:
Crystal Davis discussed the Texas Emerging Communities Program at the Texas Forest Service.
Special projects:
Rachael Pitts briefed members on the TML Small Cities’ Problem-Solving Clinic schedule, the SolutionsNet list serve, the TML workshop tuition scholarship program, TML’s legislative webinars, and the TML awards programs. Pitts also briefed the SCAC on the need for Leonard Reed to receive special consideration from SCAC meeting attendance requirements during his tenure as TML President-Elect and TML President.
Motion made by Greg Wortham, seconded by Buddy Zavesky., and passed unanimously to give Leonard Reed special consideration from SCAC meeting attendance requirements during his tenure as TML President-Elect and TML President.
Next SCAC meeting:
The next meeting of the SCAC will be held on Sunday, June 26, 2011, in conjunction with the TML Legislative Wrap-Up Briefing in Austin. The meeting will begin at 5:00 p.m., and dinner will be served.
Other business:
Rachael Pitts announced vacancies on the SCAC for city officials in regions 3, 5, 10, and 12.
Rachael Pitts recognized Joe Cordina, Eddie Daffern, Jim Fitzgerald, and Leonard Reed for being 2010 Texas Municipal League Institute award recipients.
Since there was no other business to come before the SCAC, a motion passed unanimously to adjourn at 1:40 p.m.
Texas Municipal League
Small Cities Advisory Council
MINUTES
October 26, 2010
Omni Bayfront Hotel – Corpus Christi, Texas
Introductory remarks:
- The TML Small Cities Advisory Council (SCAC) Chair Kim Dobbs welcomed members and called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
- SCAC members present:
- Chair Kim Dobbs, Assistant City Manager, Heath
- Vice-Chair Roy McDonald, Mayor, West Orange
- Francene Allen-Noah, Mayor, Snyder
- Walter Bowen, Mayor, Lake Worth
- Jared Bryan, Mayor, Morgan’s Point Resort
- Joe Cordina, Mayor, Parker
- Randy Daniel, Mayor, Athens
- Frank Estrada, Mayor Pro Tem, Lockhart
- Jim “Fitz” Fitzgerald, Councilmember, Alpine
- Andres Garza, Jr., City Manager, Wharton
- Roger G. Garza, Councilmember, Pleasanton
- Joe Hermes, Mayor, Edna
- Lorenzo Hernandez, Mayor, Presidio
- Ken Irwin, Alderman, Laguna Vista
- Susan Kirschner, Councilmember, Live Oak
- Dan Looten, Mayor, Panhandle
- Robert C. Maddox, Mayor, Memphis
- Jerry Marshall, Mayor, Rotan
- Dulani Masimini, Mayor Pro Tem, Forest Hill
- Leonard Reed, Mayor, Willis
- Brenda Samford, City Manager, Carthage
- Brett Shannon, City Manager, Decatur
- Brad Stafford, City Manager, Navasota
- Sherrie Williams, Alderman, Iowa Park
- André Wimer, City Manager, Port Neches
- Greg Wortham, Mayor, Sweetwater
- Visitors/staff present:
- TML President Debra McCartt, Mayor, Amarillo
- TML President-Elect Dr. Robert Cluck, Mayor, Arlington
- TML Past President Terry Henley, Mayor Pro Tem, Meadows Place
- Teodoro “Ted” Benevides, Key Institute Staff, The Institute of Public Affairs, University of Texas at Dallas
- Rafael Carrera, Councilmember, Presidio
- Linda Cluck, Arlington
- Grace Edwards, Acting City Secretary, Forest Hill
- Obed Escontrias, Councilmember, Presidio
- Betty Fitzgerald, Alpine
- Bryan Grimes, City Manager, Petersburg
- Sheyi Ipaye, City Manager, Forest Hill
- Bert Miller, Mayor, Navasota
- Brad Newton, City Administrator, Presidio
- Carlos E. Nieto, Special Projects Coordinator, Presidio
- Andrew Sanders, Councilmember, Forest Hill
- Edgar Sotelo, Councilmember, Presidio
- Lyndia Thomas, Councilmember, Forest Hill
- Jennifer Wichmann, Administrative Services Manager, Arlington
- Kenneth Williams, Alderman, Hamlin
- Bennett Sandlin, Executive Director, TML
- Frank Sturzl, Retiring Executive Director, TML
- Karla Vining, Associate Executive Director, TML
- Rachael Pitts, Director of Member Services, TML
- SCAC members not present:
- Tom Blazek, City Manager, Rockport (staff notified)
- Gary Brown, City Manager, Floydada (staff notified)
- Jeff Caldwell, City Administrator, Martindale (staff notified)
- Jeff Looney, City Manager, Fairfield (staff notified)
- Larry Pippen, City Administrator, Karnes City (staff notified)
- Margie Scott, Commissioner, Electra (staff notified)
- Ken Thomas, City Manager, Early (staff notified)
TML President comments:
TML President Debra McCartt thanked members for the important work the SCAC does for the small cities of Texas.
TML President-Elect comments:
TML President-Elect Dr. Robert Cluck expressed his eagerness to begin his year as TML President and looks forward to working with the SCAC.
Consider excused absences:
Motion made by Jerry Marshall, seconded by Andres Garza, Jr., and passed unanimously to excuse the absences of members who had notified the staff.
Consider minutes of July 16, 2010, meeting:
Motion made by Brett Shannon, seconded by Joe Cordina, and passed unanimously to approve the minutes of the July 16, 2010, meeting.
Comments by retiring Executive Director Frank Sturzl:
Frank Sturzl thanked the SCAC for the advice and direction they provide TML.
SCAC Chair Kim Dobbs presented Sturzl with mementos and cards from members of the SCAC.
Executive Director’s report:
Bennett Sandlin thanked the SCAC for the work they do on behalf of small TML member cities. Sandlin explained that he will rely on the expertise of small city officials during his tenure as TML Executive Director.
The Institute for Public Affairs as the University of Texas at Dallas:
Ted Benevides provided a highlight of the programs and services available to cities through The Institute of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Dallas.
Special projects:
Rachael Pitts briefed members on the TML Small Cities’ Problem-Solving Clinic schedule, the SolutionsNet list serve, the TML workshop tuition scholarship program, and small cities’ sessions scheduled for the 2010 TML Annual Conference and Exhibition.
Next SCAC meeting:
The next meeting of the SCAC will be held on Friday, February 11, 2011, in Austin, in conjunction with the TML Elected Officials’ Conference. The meeting will begin at noon, and lunch will be served.
Other business:
Chair Kim Dobbs presented outgoing member Frank Estrada with a certificate of appreciation for his service on the SCAC.
Vice-Chair Roy McDonald presented Chair Kim Dobbs with a certificate of appreciation for her service as 2010 SCAC Chair.
Since there was no other business to come before the SCAC, a motion passed unanimously to adjourn at 5:50 p.m.
Texas Municipal League
Small Cities Advisory Council
MINUTES
July 16, 2010
Texas Municipal Center – Austin, Texas
Introductory remarks:
-
The TML Small Cities Advisory Council (SCAC) Chair Kim Dobbs welcomed members and called the meeting to order at 10:30 a.m.
-
SCAC members present:
- Chair Kim Dobbs, Assistant City Manager, Heath
- Vice-Chair Roy McDonald, Mayor, West Orange
- Francene Allen-Noah, Mayor, Snyder
- Tom Blazek, City Manager, Rockport
- Walter Bowen, Mayor, Lake Worth
- Gary Brown, City Manager, Floydada
- Jared Bryan, Mayor, Morgan's Point Resort
- Jeff Caldwell, City Administrator, Martindale
- Joe Cordina, Mayor, Parker
- Randy Daniel, Mayor, Athens
- Frank Estrada, Mayor Pro Tem, Lockhart
- Jim "Fitz" Fitzgerald, Councilmember, Alpine
- Andres Garza, Jr., City Manager, Wharton
- Roger G. Garza, Councilmember, Pleasanton
- Joe Hermes, Mayor, Edna
- Lorenzo Hernandez, Mayor, Presidio
- Susan Kirschner, Councilmember, Live Oak
- Jeff Looney, City Manager, Fairfield
- Dan Looten, Mayor, Panhandle
- Jerry Marshall, Mayor, Rotan
- Dulani Masimini, Mayor Pro Tem, Forest Hill
- Larry Pippen, City Administrator, Karnes City
- Leonard Reed, Mayor, Willis
- Brenda Samford, City Manager, Carthage
- Brett Shannon, City Manager, Decatur
- Brad Stafford, City Manager, Navasota
- Ken Thomas, City Manager, Early
- Sherrie Williams, Alderman, Iowa Park
- André Wimer, City Manager, Port Neches
- Greg Wortham, Mayor, Sweetwater
- Visitors/staff present:
- Obed Escontrias, Alderman, Presidio
- Betty Fitzgerald, Alpine
- James Gosey, Mayor, Forest Hill
- Stacy Hitchman, City Manager, Morgan's Point Resort
- Brad Newton, City Administrator, Presidio
- Carlos E. Nieto, President, Board of Trustees, Presidio Independent School District
- Frank Sturzl, Executive Director, TML
- Bennett Sandlin, General Counsel, TML
- Scott Houston, Director of Legal Services, TML
- Rachael Pitts, Director of Member Services, TML
- SCAC members not present:
- Wanda Herd, Mayor, Wheeler (staff notified)
- David Landis, City Manager, Perryton (staff notified)
Consider excused absences:
Motion made by Roy McDonald, seconded by Jared Bryan, and passed unanimously to excuse the absences of members who had notified the staff.
Consider minutes of March 12, 2010, meeting:
Motion made by Brad Stafford, seconded by Gary Brown, and passed unanimously to approve the minutes of the March 12, 2010, meeting.
Executive Director's report:
Frank Sturzl provided a forecast of city-related issues the state legislature will likely consider during the 2011 legislative session and briefed members on the TML executive director transition process. Larry Pippen led a discussion on rural water supply districts, and Walter Bowen led a discussion on federalized collective bargaining legislation.
Executive director-designee Bennett Sandlin told the group that he looks forward to working with the SCAC.
Special projects:
Rachael Pitts briefed members on the TML Small Cities' Problem-Solving Clinic schedule, the TML workshop scholarship program, and small cities' sessions scheduled for the 2010 TML Annual Conference and Exhibition.
Next SCAC meeting:
The next meeting of the SCAC will be held on Tuesday, October 26, 2010, in Corpus Christi, in conjunction with the TML Annual Conference and Exhibition. The meeting will begin at 5:00 p.m., and a dinner will follow.
Other business:
Since there was no other business to come before the SCAC, a motion passed unanimously to adjourn at 12:15 p.m.
Texas Municipal League
Small Cities Advisory Council
MINUTES
March 12, 2010
Texas Municipal Center – Austin, Texas
Introductory remarks:
-
The TML Small Cities Advisory Council (SCAC) Chair Kim Dobbs welcomed members and called the meeting to order at 10:35 a.m.
- SCAC members present:
- Chair Kim Dobbs, Assistant City Manager, Heath
- Vice-Chair Roy McDonald, Mayor, West Orange
- Tom Blazek, City Manager, Rockport
- Walter Bowen, Mayor, Lake Worth
- Gary Brown, City Manager, Floydada
- Jared Bryan, Alderman, Morgan’s Point Resort
- Jeff Caldwell, City Administrator, Martindale
- Wayne Christian, Mayor, Graham
- Joe Cordina, Mayor, Parker
- Jim “Fitz” Fitzgerald, Councilmember, Alpine
- Andres Garza, Jr., City Manager, Wharton
- Susan Kirschner, Councilmember, Live Oak
- David Landis, City Manager, Perryton
- Jeff Looney, City Manager, Fairfield
- Dan Looten, Mayor, Panhandle
- John Markham, III, Councilmember, Ore City
- Jerry Marshall, Mayor, Rotan
- Larry Pippen, City Administrator, Karnes City
- Leonard Reed, Mayor, Willis
- Brett Shannon, City Manager, Decatur
- Brad Stafford, City Manager, Navasota
- Greg Wortham, Mayor, Sweetwater
- Visitors/staff present:
- Shanna Igo, Deputy Executive Director, TML
- Rachael Pitts, Assistant Director of Member Services, TML
- Tony Alotto, Associate Division Director, Texas Engineering Extension Service
- SCAC members not present:
- Francene Allen-Noah, Mayor, Snyder (staff notified)
- Randy Daniel, Mayor, Athens (staff notified)
- Frank Estrada, Mayor Pro Tem, Lockhart (staff notified)
- Roger G. Garza, Councilmember, Pleasanton
- Wanda Herd, Mayor, Wheeler (staff notified)
- Joe Hermes, Mayor, Edna (staff notified)
- Lorenzo Hernandez, Mayor, Presidio (staff notified)
- Dulani Masimini, Councilmember, Forest Hill (staff notified)
- Brenda Samford, City Manager, Carthage (staff notified)
- Ken Thomas, City Manager, Early (staff notified)
- Sherrie Williams, Alderman, Iowa Park (staff notified)
- André Wimer, City Manager, Port Neches (staff notified)
Consider excused absences:
Motion made by Joe Cordina, seconded by Andres Garza, Jr., and passed unanimously to excuse the absences of members who had notified the staff.
Consider minutes of October 20, 2009, meeting:
Motion made by Brad Stafford, seconded by Gary Brown, and passed unanimously to approve the minutes of the October 20, 2009, meeting.
Legislative update:
Shanna Igo briefed members on the TML legislative policy development process and provided a forecast of the top city-related issues the state legislature will likely consider during the 2011 legislative session.
Public Works Response Team presentation:
Tony Alotto briefed members on the Public Works Response Team Program. The program provides support to critical public works services in the event of a catastrophic event.
Special projects:
Rachael Pitts briefed members on the TML Small Cities’ Problem-Solving Clinic schedule, the SolutionsNet list serve, grant notices in the TML Legislative Update newsletter, and a new TML publication, A Guide to Becoming a City Official. Pitts also presented a proposal to create a TML workshop scholarship program for small cities.
Motion made by Jerry Marshall, seconded by Brad Stafford, and passed unanimously to direct TML staff to implement a TML workshop scholarship program for small cities.
Next SCAC meeting:
The next meeting of the SCAC will be held on Friday, July 16, 2010, at the TML offices in Austin. The meeting will begin at 10:30 a.m. A working lunch will be provided.
Other business:
Chair Kim Dobbs presented Graham Mayor Wayne Christian with a certificate of appreciation for his service on the SCAC.
Vice-Chair Roy McDonald provided a status report on the City of West Orange’s rebuilding efforts after Hurricanes Rita and Ike.
Since there was no other business to come before the SCAC, a motion passed unanimously to adjourn at 1:00 p.m.
Texas Municipal League
Small Cities Advisory Council
MINUTES
October 20, 2009
Omni Fort Worth Hotel – Fort Worth, Texas
Introductory remarks:
- The TML Small Cities Advisory Council (SCAC) Chair Leonard Reed welcomed members and called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
- SCAC members present:
- Chair Leonard Reed, Mayor, Willis
- Vice-Chair Kim Dobbs, Assistant City Manager, Heath
- Tom Blazek, City Manager, Rockport
- Walter Bowen, Mayor, Lake Worth
- Jared Bryan, Alderman, Morgan’s Point Resort
- Wayne Christian, Mayor, Graham
- Joe Cordina, Councilmember, Parker
- Randy Daniel, Mayor, Athens
- Frank Estrada, Mayor Pro Tem, Lockhart
- Jim “Fitz” Fitzgerald, Councilmember, Alpine
- Richard Fletcher, City Manager, Robinson
- Andres Garza, Jr., City Manager, Wharton
- Roger G. Garza, Councilmember, Pleasanton
- Joe Hermes, Mayor, Edna
- Susan Kirschner, Councilmember, Live Oak
- David Landis, City Manager, Perryton
- Dan Looten, Mayor, Panhandle
- John Markham, III, Councilmember, Ore City
- Jerry Marshall, Mayor, Rotan
- Dulani Masimini, Councilmember, Forest Hill
- Roy McDonald, Mayor, West Orange
- Larry Pippen, City Administrator, Karnes City
- Brenda Samford, City Manager, Carthage
- Brett Shannon, City Manager, Decatur
- Brad Stafford, City Manager, Navasota
- André Wimer, City Manager, Port Neches
- Greg Wortham, Mayor Sweetwater
- Visitors/staff present:
- TML President-Elect Debra McCartt, Mayor, Amarillo
- Frank Sturzl, Executive Director, TML
- Karla Vining, Deputy Executive Director, TML
- Rachael Pitts, Assistant Director of Member Services, TML
- SCAC members not present:
- Francene Allen-Noah, Mayor, Snyder (staff notified)
- Gary Brown, City Manager, Floydada (staff notified)
- Wanda Herd, Mayor, Wheeler (staff notified)
- Mary Anne Holcomb, Councilmember, Kemah (staff notified)
- Jeff Looney, City Manager, Fairfield (staff notified)
- Linda Shelton, Councilmember, Bowie
- Ken Thomas, City Manager, Early (staff notified)
Consider excused absences:
Motion made by Jerry Marshall, seconded by Joe Hermes, and passed unanimously to excuse the absences of members who had notified the staff.
Consider minutes of May 15, 2009, meeting:
Motion made by Walter Bowen, seconded by Joe Cordina, and passed unanimously to approve the minutes of the May 15, 2009, meeting.
TML President-Elect’s comments:
TML President-Elect Debra McCartt thanked members for the important work the TML Small Cities Advisory Council does for the small cities of Texas. McCartt expressed her eagerness to begin her year as TML President and shared her presidential theme of regional cooperation.
TML Executive Director’s report
TML Executive Director Frank Sturzl briefed members on a Public Utility Commission (PUC) issue involving telecommunications right-of-way fees, PUC Project No. 36830.
2009 SCAC retreat update
Karla Vining and Rachael Pitts provided an update on recommendations developed at the May 15, 2009, SCAC retreat.
Next SCAC meeting:
The next meeting of the SCAC will be held on Friday, March 12, 2010, at the TML offices in Austin. The meeting will begin at 10:30 a.m. A working lunch will be provided.
Other business:
Vice-Chair Kim Dobbs presented Chair Leonard Reed with a certificate of appreciation for his service as 2009 SCAC Chair.
It was noted that the SCAC has vacancies in TML regions 4, 10, and 12.
Since there was no other business to come before the SCAC, a motion passed unanimously to adjourn at 6:25 p.m.
Texas Municipal League
Small Cities Advisory Council
MINUTES
May 15, 2009
Stagecoach Inn Conference Center – Salado, Texas
Introductory remarks:
- The TML Small Cities Advisory Council (SCAC) Chair Leonard Reed welcomed members and called the meeting to order at 8:30 a.m.
- SCAC members present:
- - Chair Leonard Reed, Mayor, Willis
- - Vice-Chair Kim Dobbs, Assistant City Manager, Heath
- - Tom Blazek, City Manager, Rockport
- - Walter Bowen, Mayor, Lake Worth
- - Rebecca Brewster, City Administrator, Van Horn
- - Dewey Cashwell, City Manager, South Padre Island
- - Wayne Christian, Mayor, Graham
- - Joe Cordina, Councilmember, Parker
- - Randy Daniel, Mayor, Athens
- - Richard Fletcher, City Manager, Robinson
- - Andres Garza, Jr., City Manager, Wharton
- - Joe Hermes, Mayor, Edna
- - David Landis, City Manager, Perryton
- - Jack Leonhardt, Mayor, Windcrest
- - Jerry Marshall, Mayor, Rotan
- - Roy McDonald, Mayor, West Orange
- - Larry Pippen, City Administrator, Karnes City
- - Avinash K. Rangra, Mayor Pro Tem, Alpine
- - Brett Shannon, City Manager, Decatur
- - Brad Stafford, City Manager, Navasota
- - Ken Thomas, City Manager, Early
- Visitors/staff present:
- - TML President-Elect Debra McCartt, Mayor, Amarillo
- - Rachael Pitts, Assistant Director of Member Services, TML
- - Karla Vining, Deputy Executive Director, TML
- - Mike Conduff, President and CEO, The Elim Group
- SCAC members not present:
- - Francene Allen-Noah, Mayor, Snyder (staff notified)
- - Gary Brown, City Manager, Floydada (staff notified)
- - Judy Edwards, Mayor, Wortham (staff notified)
- - Frank Estrada, Councilmember, Lockhart (staff notified)
- - Wanda Herd, Mayor, Wheeler (staff notified)
- - Mary Anne Holcomb, Councilmember, Kemah (staff notified)
- - Brenda Samford, City Manager, Carthage (staff notified)
- - Linda Shelton, Councilmember, Bowie (staff notified)
- - Toni Vanderburg, Administration Manager, Horseshoe Bay (staff notified)
- - Andre Wimer, City Manager, Port Neches (staff notified)
- - Greg Wortham, Mayor, Sweetwater (staff notified)
Consider excused absences:
Motion made by Joe Cordina, seconded by Andres Garza, Jr., and passed unanimously to excuse the absences of members who had notified the staff.
Consider minutes of February 6, 2009, meeting:
Motion made by Jack Leonhardt, seconded by Walter Bowen, and passed unanimously to approve the minutes of the February 6, 2009, meeting.
TML President-Elect’s report:
TML President-Elect Debra McCartt thanked members for the important work the TML Small Cities Advisory Council does for the small cities of Texas. McCartt recognized the significant impact that small cities have on the state and stressed the importance of all cities, regardless of size, to work together for the betterment of their areas and the entire state.
Special projects update:
TML Small Cities’ Problem-Solving Clinic review – Rachael Pitts announced that there are seven clinics scheduled through April, 2010: July 17, 2009, in Alpine; August 14, 2009, in Canyon; September 11, 2009, in Tye; December 4, 2009, in Salado; February 5, 2010, in Rio Hondo; April 16, 2010, in Diboll; and April 25, 2010, in Wharton.
TML Resource Fair – TML held a resource fair on March 27, 2009, in Lubbock. Twenty-one agencies and associations participated in the fair. Thirty city officials attended the fair. TML will not hold a fair in 2010.
Sales Tax Capture and Leakage Analysis Service – The Sales Tax Capture and Leakage Analysis Service offered by MuniServices, LLC, is the newest member of the TML Business Service Partner program.
Next SCAC meeting:
The next meeting of the SCAC will be held on Tuesday, October 20, 2009, in Fort Worth, in conjunction with the TML Annual Conference and Exhibition. The meeting will begin at 5:00 p.m., and a dinner will follow.
Other business:
Chair Leonard Reed presented Jack Leonhardt, Avinash Rangra, and Rebecca Brewster with certificates of appreciation for their service on the SCAC. This is the last SCAC meeting for all three members.
The SCAC has vacancies in TML regions 4, 7, 9, and 12.
Since there was no other business to come before the SCAC, a motion passed unanimously to adjourn at 9:05 a.m. and begin a retreat, which was facilitated by Mike Conduff.
Texas Municipal League
Small Cities Advisory Council
MINUTES
February 6, 2009
Renaissance Austin Hotel – Austin, Texas
Introductory remarks:
- The TML Small Cities Advisory Council (SCAC) Vice-Chair Kim Dobbs welcomed members and called the meeting to order at 1:30 p.m.
- SCAC members present:
- Francene Allen-Noah, Mayor, Snyder
- Tom Blazek, City Manager, Rockport
- Walter Bowen, Mayor, Lake Worth
- Rebecca Brewster, City Administrator, Van Horn
- Gary Brown, City Manager, Floydada
- Wayne Christian, Mayor, Graham
- Joe Cordina, Councilmember, Parker
- Randy Daniel, Mayor, Athens
- Vice-Chair Kim Dobbs, Assistant City Manager, Heath
- Frank Estrada, Councilmember, Lockhart
- Richard Fletcher, City Manager, Robinson
- Andres Garza, Jr., City Manager, Wharton
- Mary Anne Holcomb, Councilmember, Kemah
- Jack Leonhardt, Mayor, Windcrest
- Jerry Marshall, Mayor, Rotan
- Roy McDonald, Mayor, West Orange
- Larry Pippen, City Administrator, Karnes City
- Avinash K. Rangra, Mayor Pro Tem, Alpine
- Brenda Samford, City Manager, Carthage
- Linda Shelton, Councilmember, Bowie
- Brad Stafford, City Manager, Navasota
- Ken Thomas, City Manager, Early
- Greg Wortham, Mayor, Sweetwater - Visitors/staff present:
- TML President-Elect Debra McCartt, Mayor, Amarillo
- Rachael Pitts, Assistant Director of Member Services, TML
- Frank Sturzl, Executive Director, TML
- Karla Vining, Deputy Executive Director, TML - SCAC members not present:
- Dewey Cashwell, City Manager, South Padre Island (staff notified)
- Judy Edwards, Mayor, Wortham (staff notified)
- Wanda Herd, Mayor, Wheeler (staff notified)
- Joe Hermes, Mayor, Edna (staff notified)
- David Landis, City Manager, Perryton (staff notified)
- Chair Leonard Reed, Mayor, Willis (staff notified)
- Brett Shannon, City Manager, Decatur (staff notified)
- Toni Vanderburg, City Secretary, Horseshoe Bay (staff notified)
Consider excused absences:
Motion made by Jerry Marshall, seconded by Walter Bowen, and passed unanimously to excuse the absences of members who had notified the staff.
Consider minutes of October 28, 2008, meeting:
Motion made by Brad Stafford, seconded by Randy Daniel, and passed unanimously to approve the minutes of the October 28, 2008, meeting.
TML President-Elect’s report:
TML President-Elect Debra McCartt thanked members for the important work the TML Small Cities Advisory Council does for the small cities of Texas. McCartt recognized the significant impact that small cities have on the state and stressed the importance of all cities, regardless of size, to work together for the betterment of their areas and the entire state.
TML Executive Director’s report:
Frank Sturzl highlighted the results of TML’s 2009 municipal fiscal conditions survey and provided a status report on the state legislature’s activities. Sturzl also briefed members on the Texas Municipal Retirement System’s (TMRS’s) return-to-work issue.
TML SCAC retreat:
Karla Vining summarized the history of the SCAC and the two retreats the council has held since its formation. Vining recommended that the council hold its third retreat in May 2009. Jack Leonhardt agreed that is a good time to take a step back and review the group’s original goals and objectives. Andres Garza would like to discuss at the retreat opportunities for the League to utilize technology to assist small cities. Kim Dobbs would also like to review the council’s current meeting schedule and structure.
Special projects update:
TML Small Cities’ Problem-Solving Clinic review – Rachael Pitts provided a summary of the survey sent to participants in the September 26, 2008, clinic in Decatur and the December 5, 2008, clinic in Fredericksburg. Pitts also announced that there are two clinics scheduled through July 2009: February 27, 2009, in Shenandoah and July 17, 2009, in Alpine. Additional clinics will be scheduled for the fall and winter of 2009.
TML Resource Fair – TML will hold a resource fair on March 27, 2009, in Lubbock.
Next SCAC meeting:
The next meeting of the SCAC will be held May 14-15, 2009, in Salado. The meeting will include a day-long retreat.
Other business:
Roy McDonald provided an update on the long-term effects of Hurricanes Rita and Ike on the City of West Orange.
Jack Leonhardt updated members on a recent court decision regarding the applicability of initiatives and referenda to the issuance of debt. Mary Anne Holcomb discussed issues related to property tax evaluations in the City of Kemah.
Since there was no other business to come before the SCAC, a motion passed unanimously to adjourn at 2:55 p.m.
Texas Municipal League Small Cities Advisory Council
MINUTES
October 28, 2008
Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center – San Antonio, Texas
Introductory remarks:
- The TML Small Cities Advisory Council (SCAC) Chair Brett Shannon welcomed members, made a few introductory remarks, and called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
- SCAC members present
:
- Chair Brett Shannon, City Manager, Decatur
- Tom Blazek, City Manager, Rockport
- Walter Bowen, Mayor, Lake Worth
- Rebecca Brewster, City Administrator, Van Horn
- Wayne Christian, Mayor, Graham
- Joe Cordina, Councilmember, Parker
- Randy Daniel, Mayor, Athens
- Kim Dobbs, Assistant City Manager, Heath
- Judy Edwards, Mayor, Wortham
- Frank Estrada, Councilmember, Lockhart
- Richard Fletcher, City Manager, Robinson
- Andres Garza, Jr., City Manager, Wharton
- Joe Hermes, Mayor, Edna
- David Landis, City Manager, Perryton
- Jack Leonhardt, Mayor, Windcrest
- Jerry Marshall, Mayor, Rotan
- Roy McDonald, Mayor, West Orange
- Avinash K. Rangra, Mayor Pro Tem, Alpine
- Leonard Reed, Mayor, Willis
- Brenda Samford, City Manager, Carthage
- Brad Stafford, City Manager, Navasota
- Rudy Villarreal, Mayor, Alamo
- Greg Wortham, Mayor, Sweetwater - Visitors/staff present:
- TML President Todd Pearson, Mayor, Rockport
- Rachael Pitts, Assistant Director of Membership Services, TML
- Frank Sturzl, Executive Director, TML
- Karla Vining, Deputy Executive Director, TML - SCAC members not present:
- Francene Allen-Noah, Mayor, Snyder (staff not notified)
- Gary Brown, City Manager, Floydada (staff notified)
- Wanda Herd, Mayor, Wheeler (staff notified)
- Mary Anne Holcomb, Councilmember, Kemah (staff notified)
- Janice Newman, City Secretary, Iowa Park (staff not notified)
- Larry Pippen, City Administrator, Karnes City (staff notified)
- Ken Thomas, City Manager, Early (staff notified)
- Toni Vanderburg, City Secretary, Horseshoe Bay (staff notified)
Consider excused absences:
Motion made by Jerry Marshall, seconded by Joe Cordina, and passed unanimously to excuse the absences of members who had notified the staff.
Consider minutes of June 6, 2008, meeting:
Motion made by Andres Garza, Jr., seconded by Jack Leonhardt, and passed unanimously to approve the minutes of the June 6, 2008, meeting.
TML President’s report:
TML President Todd Pearson thanked members for the important work the TML Small Cities Advisory Council does for the small cities of Texas and expressed his gratitude for his year of service as TML President.
National Association of Towns and Townships (NATaT) membership report:
Karla Vining summarized the first year of NATaT membership. Brett Shannon, Leonard Reed, and Joe Cordina gave an overview of the NATaT annual conference they attended on September 31-October 1, 2008, in Washington, D.C. Motion made by Joe Hermes, seconded by Andres Garza, Jr., and passed unanimously to not renew NATaT membership dues for small TML member cities.
Special projects update:
TML Small Cities’ Problem-Solving Clinic review – Four clinics have been held since the June 6, 2008, SCAC meeting: July 11 in Ganado (31 people attended), August 1 in Dimmitt (35 people attended), September 5 in Austin (30 people attended), and September 26 in Decatur (108 people attended). There are three clinics scheduled through July 2009: December 5, 2008, in Fredericksburg; February 27, 2009, in Shenandoah; and July 17, 2009, in Alpine.
Dutch treat networking dinner – The SCAC will host a Dutch treat networking dinner on February 7, 2009, in Austin in conjunction with the TML Elected Officials’ Conference and Legislative Briefing.
TML Resource Fair – TML will hold a resource fair on March 27, 2009, in Lubbock.
Next SCAC meeting:
The SCAC voted to next meet on February 6, 2008, at the Renaissance Hotel in Austin in conjunction with the TML Elected Officials’ Conference and Legislative Briefing. The meeting will begin at 1:30 p.m.
Other business:
Roy McDonald discussed the possible long-term effects of Hurricanes Rita and Ike on the City of West Orange.
Jack Leonhardt discussed cases and opinions that have found that charter initiatives and referenda cannot influence complex financial matters such as tax rates and issuance of debt.
Rudy Villarreal is going off the SCAC due to the City of Alamo’s population growth. Rudy was presented with a certificate for his service.
Brett Shannon was presented with a certificate for his service as 2008 chair of the SCAC.
Since there was no other business to come before the SCAC, a motion passed unanimously to adjourn at 6:15 p.m.
Texas Municipal League
Small Cities Advisory Council
MINUTES
June 6, 2008
Texas Municipal Center – Austin, Texas
Introductory remarks:
- The TML Small Cities Advisory Council (SCAC) Chairman Brett Shannon welcomed members, made a few introductory remarks, and called the meeting to order at 10:30 a.m.
- SCAC members present:
- Chair Brett Shannon, City Manager, Decatur
- Tom Blazek, City Manager, Rockport
- Walter Bowen, Mayor, Lake Worth
- Rebecca Brewster, City Administrator, Van Horn
- Randy Daniel, Mayor, Athens
- Judy Edwards, Mayor, Wortham
- Richard Fletcher, City Manager, Robinson
- Wanda Herd, Mayor, Wheeler
- Joe Hermes, Mayor, Edna
- Jack Leonhardt, Mayor, Windcrest
- Jerry Marshall, Mayor, Rotan
- Roy McDonald, Mayor, West Orange
- Leonard Reed, Mayor, Willis
- Ken Thomas, City Manager, Early
- Toni Vanderburg, City Secretary, Horseshoe Bay
- Rudy Villarreal, Mayor, Alamo
- Greg Wortham, Mayor, Sweetwater
- Visitors/staff present:
- Bobby Gierisch, Coordinator, Texas Rural Innovators Forum (TRIF)
- Rance McDonald, Team Lead, Communications and Outreach Department, Office of Rural Community Affairs (ORCA)
- TML President Todd Pearson, Mayor, Rockport
- Rachael Pitts, Assistant Director of Membership Services, TML
- Frank Sturzl, Executive Director, TML
- Karla Vining, Deputy Executive Director, TML
- SCAC members not present:
- Francene Allen-Noah, Mayor, Snyder (staff notified)
- Gary Brown, City Manager, Floydada (staff notified)
- Wayne Christian, Mayor, Graham (staff notified)
- Joe Cordina, Councilmember, Parker (staff notified)
- Kim Dobbs, Assistant City Manager, Heath (staff notified)
- Frank Estrada, Councilmember, Lockhart (staff notified)
- Ricardo Garcia, City Manager, Mercedes (staff not notified)
- Andres Garza, Jr., City Manager, Wharton (staff notified)
- Mary Anne Holcomb, Councilmember, Kemah (staff notified)
- David Landis, City Manager, Perryton (staff notified)
- Janice Newman, City Secretary, Iowa Park (staff not notified)
- Terre Noble, City Secretary, Center (staff notified)
- Larry Pippen, City Administrator, Karnes City (staff notified)
- Avinash K. Rangra, Mayor Pro Tem, Alpine (staff notified)
- Brenda Samford, City Manager, Carthage (staff notified)
- Brad Stafford, City Manager, Navasota (staff notified)
Consider excused absences:
Motion made by Rudy Villarreal, seconded by Joe Hermes, and passed unanimously to approve all excused absences.
Consider minutes of February 1, 2008, meeting:
Motion made by Randy Daniel, seconded by Tom Blazek, and passed unanimously to approve the minutes of the February 1, 2008, meeting.
TML President’s report:
TML President Todd Pearson thanked members for serving and for the important work the TML Small Cities Advisory Council does for the small cities of Texas.
Texas Rural Innovators Forum presentation:
Bobby Gierisch, the creator and director of the Texas Rural Innovators Forum (TRIF), gave an overview of past forums and encouraged city officials to participate in future forums.
Office of Rural Community Affairs presentation:
Rance McDonald, with the communications and outreach department of the Office of Rural Community Affairs, gave an overview of the agency’s funding structure and services provided.
Executive Director’s report:
Frank Sturzl gave an overview of the League’s policy development process and the status of TML legislative policy committees. Sturzl also provided a forecast of the top city-related issues the state legislature will likely consider during 2009 legislative session.
Special projects update:
TML Small Cities’ Problem-Solving Clinic review – Four clinics have been held in 2008 to date: January 25 in Alamo (33 people attended), February 22 in Madisonville (52 people attended), March 14 in Horseshoe Bay (29 people attended), and March 28 in Jefferson (30 people attended). There are four clinics scheduled for the remainder of the year: July 11 in Ganado, August 1 in Dimmitt, September 5 in Austin, and September 26 in Decatur.
Dutch Treat Networking Dinner – The SCAC hosted a Dutch treat networking dinner on February 1, 2008, in Irving in conjunction with the TML Elected Officials’ Conference. Thirty people attended the dinner.
TML Resource Fair – TML held a resource fair on April 4, 2008, in Nacogdoches. Nineteen state agencies, associations, and businesses participated in the fair, and 54 city officials attended.
National Association of Towns and Townships (NATaT) Conference – The National Association of Towns and Township’s annual legislative conference will be held on September 30 – October 1, 2008, in Washington, D.C. Members of the SCAC are encouraged to attend.
FOIA Systems – TML’s newest Business Service Partner is FOIA Systems, a web-based open records request management system. Information about FOIA Systems can be found on the TML Web site.
Next SCAC meeting:
The SCAC voted to next meet on October 28, 2008, at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio in conjunction with the TML Annual Conference. The meeting will begin at 5:00 p.m.
Other business:
Since there was no other business to come before the SCAC, a motion passed unanimously to adjourn at 12:55 p.m.
Texas Municipal League
Small Cities Advisory Council
MINUTES
February 1, 2008
Marriott Las Colinas – Irving, Texas
Introductory remarks:
- Small Cities Advisory Council (SCAC) Chairman Brett Shannon welcomed members, made a few introductory remarks, and called the meeting to order at 10:30 a.m.
- SCAC members present:
- - Chair Brett Shannon, City Manager, Decatur
- - Tom Blazek, City Manager, Rockport
- - Walter Bowen, Mayor, Lake Worth
- - Gary Brown, City Manager, Floydada
- - Wayne Christian, Mayor, Graham
- - Joe Cordina, Councilmember, Parker
- - Randy Daniel, Mayor, Athens
- - Kim Dobbs, Assistant City Manager, Heath
- - Judy Edwards, Mayor, Wortham
- - Frank Estrada, Councilmember, Lockhart
- - Andres Garza, Jr., City Manager, Wharton
- - Jack Leonhardt, Mayor, Windcrest
- - Jerry Marshall, Mayor, Rotan
- - Larry Pippen, City Administrator, Karnes City
- - Avinash K. Rangra, Mayor Pro Tem, Alpine
- - Leonard Reed, Mayor, Willis
- - Brenda Samford, City Manager, Carthage
- - Toni Vanderburg, City Secretary, Horseshoe Bay
- - Rudy Villarreal, Mayor, Alamo
- Visitors/staff present:
- - Mary Bradley, Administrative Assistant, Wylie
- - Sheri Campbell-Husband, Director of Neighborhood Services, Burleson
- - TML President Todd Pearson, Mayor, Rockport
- - Rachael Pitts, Assistant Director of Membership Services, TML
- - Frank Sturzl, Executive Director, TML
- - Karla Vining, Deputy Executive Director, TML
- SCAC members not present:
- - Francene Allen-Noah, Mayor, Snyder (staff not notified)
- - Ricardo Garcia, City Manager, Mercedes (staff was notified)
- - Glen Hackler, City Manager, Andrews (staff was notified)
- - Brian Henault, Councilmember, Hilshire Village (staff was notified)
- - Wanda Herd, Mayor, Wheeler (staff was notified)
- - Joe Hermes, Mayor, Edna (staff was notified)
- - Mary Anne Holcomb, Councilmember, Kemah (staff was notified)
- - Randy Kimler, City Manager, Port Neches (staff was notified)
- - David Landis, City Manager, Perryton (staff was notified)
- - Roy McDonald, Mayor, West Orange (staff was notified)
- - Janice Newman, City Secretary, Iowa Park (staff was not notified)
- - Brad Stafford, City Manager, Navasota (staff was notified)
- - Ken Thomas, City Manager, Early (staff was notified)
- - Greg Wortham, Mayor, Sweetwater (staff was notified)
Consider excused absences:
Motion made by Jerry Marshall, seconded by Joe Cordina, and passed unanimously to approve all excused absences.
Consider minutes of November 6, 2007, meeting:
Motion made by Gary Brown, seconded by Andres Garza, Jr., and passed unanimously to approve the minutes of the November 6, 2007, meeting.
“Texas Cities Work” presentation:
TML President Todd Pearson provided an overview of TML’s “Texas Cities Work” public education program. Mary Bradley, Wylie administrative assistant, and Sheri Campbell-Husband, Burleson director of neighborhood services, explained how their respective cities use the program to educate city staff and citizens on the many services that city governments provide.
TML Small Cities’ Problem-Solving Clinic review:
A clinic was held in Alamo on January 25, 2008, with 33 people attending. There are clinics scheduled for February 22, 2008, in Madisonville; March 14, 2008, in Horseshoe Bay; and March 28, 2008, in Jefferson.
Special projects update:
A briefing was given on special projects:
Resource Fair – TML will conduct a Resource Fair on April 4, 2008, in Nacogdoches. The Resource Fair will provide a venue for city officials to make contact with state agencies, businesses, and associations that provide services to cities.
Texas Rural Innovators Forum (TRIF) – TRIF conducts six to eight forums a year that focus on rural economic development issues. The next forum will be held on February 6, 2008, in Bastrop.
Executive Director’s report:
Frank Sturzl briefed the SCAC on the National Association of Towns and Townships (NATaT). The TML Board of Directors approved NATaT membership dues at its meeting on November 7, 2007. Sturzl also gave an overview of the TML policy development process.
Next SCAC meeting:
The SCAC voted to have its next meeting on Friday, June 6, 2008, at the TML offices in Austin. The SCAC will meet from 10:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. with a working lunch.
Other business:
The Dutch treat networking dinner, which will be hosted by the SCAC, will begin at 5:30 p.m.
Jack Leonhardt provided an update on the City of Windcrest’s resident welcome reception hosted quarterly by the city along with local businesses and associations.
Since there was no other business to come before the SCAC, a motion passed unanimously to adjourn at 11:45 a.m.
