Stafford City Council Appoints Joe Longoria and Irene Lozano to Key Committees

The Stafford City Council meeting on September 3, 2025, focused on several key issues, including budget preparations, appointments to various committees, and upgrades to the emergency operations center.

One of the primary discussions revolved around the timeline for reviewing financial statements in relation to the upcoming budget meeting scheduled for October 10. Council members emphasized the importance of thorough review, particularly since this would be the first audit conducted by a new firm. They agreed to finalize the budget details in the weeks leading up to the meeting to ensure all necessary information is available for review.

The council also addressed appointments to the Charter Review Commission and the Planning and Zoning Commission. Joe Longoria was appointed to the Charter Review Commission after one appointee withdrew due to a conflict. For the Planning and Zoning Commission, Irene Lozano was recommended for appointment due to her long-standing residency in Stafford, having lived there for 29 years. Despite a competing nomination from another council member, Lozano's appointment was approved with a vote of 4-0, with two members abstaining.

Additionally, the council discussed filling a vacancy on the Drainage, Flood Mitigation, and Subsidence Committee. Dr. Christopher Caldwell was nominated for this position, which would allow the committee to hold meetings and address pressing flood concerns in the area, especially as hurricane season approaches. Public comments highlighted the urgency of convening the committee to develop strategies for flood preparedness.

Lastly, the council reviewed a proposal from Ford Audio Visual Systems for upgrades to the emergency operations center. The upgrades aim to enhance the facility's capabilities without extensive renovations, ensuring compliance with current electrical codes. The council expressed support for moving forward with the project, which is crucial for improving emergency response efforts.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to financial transparency, community involvement in governance, and proactive measures for disaster preparedness.