City Council approves Cadence Bank as primary depository for municipal services

The City Council of Nacogdoches convened on July 1, 2025, to address several key agenda items, including traffic safety concerns and the awarding of a depository services contract.

The meeting began with a discussion on the critical need for a traffic light at Lloyd Street. A representative highlighted that the light is essential for bank customers and older drivers in the area, particularly as Stephen F. Austin University (SFA) anticipates significant growth over the next few years. The speaker warned that removing the light could lead to increased speeds and a higher likelihood of accidents, especially as traffic patterns shift due to changes at College Street. The representative urged for further study before any decisions are made regarding the light's removal, emphasizing that safety should not be compromised for cost savings.

Following this discussion, the council moved to the consent agenda, which was approved unanimously without any items being removed for further discussion.

The council then addressed the awarding of a depository services contract to Cadence Bank. Kevin Sardinia, the accounting manager, presented the request, noting that the city is required by law to review its banking services every five years. After a competitive process involving six applications, Cadence Bank was selected. Tim Pinnen from Valley View Consulting provided additional insights into the selection process, explaining that the new contract would begin on October 1, 2025, and would be structured to allow for flexibility in case of changes in banking personnel or market conditions.

The meeting concluded with a clear direction for the city to prioritize traffic safety and to formalize its banking relationship with Cadence Bank, ensuring the city’s financial operations remain secure and efficient. Further studies on traffic patterns and safety measures are expected to follow as the council continues to address community concerns.