The City Commission of Sweetwater on Oct. 6 approved a resolution authorizing an open‑market contract with ESR LLC for purchase and deployment of sandbags to residents during storms.

Mayor Jose Diaz told commissioners the vendor’s trucks produce prefilled sandbags on site via a conveyor system, allowing quick distribution without manual shoveling. Officials said the approach is commonly used by other municipalities and is intended to streamline distribution in emergencies.

Commission discussion focused on procurement terms, minimum order quantities and reimbursement. A commissioner asked about a referenced $25,000 minimum; staff explained vendors typically require a minimum order across participating communities so equipment mobilization is economical. Mayor Diaz and other commissioners said unused sandbags would be stored for future use if not distributed.

Commissioners also discussed FEMA reimbursement. The mayor said vendor paperwork shows the company can support documentation for 100% reimbursement in some cases, but others noted typical municipal FEMA reimbursements often cover around 70% with additional county or local matching requirements; the commission did not promise a specific reimbursement level.

The commission approved the contract unanimously. Officials said the contract will be funded from the fiscal‑year 2025–26 budget line item for emergency supplies and that staff will coordinate deployment procedures and public communications in a storm.

Action: resolution approved (motion by Commissioner Reynaldo Rey, second by Commissioner Daniel; passed unanimously). Staff said they would not be charged unless the city orders or uses the service per the contract terms.