Freeport Council approves first‑responder hiring incentive, TMRS increase and pool repairs; tables yard‑of‑the‑month and facility‑use policy

Freeport City Council on Sept. 29 approved a series of personnel and facility measures — including a hiring bonus for new first responders, amendments to the city's Texas Municipal Retirement System benefit and a plan to renovate the Freeport Recreation Center pool — and tabled several other items after extended discussion about funding and program design.

The council met in a special session at 6:03 p.m. and took action on more than a half dozen resolutions and two ordinance-level items. Most votes were unanimous or near‑unanimous; the council split 4–1 on the pool renovation package after a separate proposal to pay from the parks budget failed 1–4.

Why it matters: Council members said the personnel measures aim to help recruitment and retention for police and fire staff. The pool work drew debate because it is capital‑intensive, involves a three‑year maintenance contract and staff and some council members asked whether one‑time repairs should be paid from the TERS tourism/ redevelopment fund or from the parks budget. The yard‑of‑the‑month program prompted lengthy discussion over program design, eligibility and whether the city or its parks/beautification committee should fund prizes.

Votes at a glance

- Resolution 2025‑2968 — Waive Brazosport High School golf team player fees at the Freeport Municipal Golf Course for up to 25 players. Motion carried unanimously (5–0). Motion to approve made by Councilman Matamoras and seconded by Councilman Rosso.

- Resolution authorizing the fire chief to sign the 2025–2026 Brazoria County Firefighters Association Fire Protection Agreement. Motion carried unanimously (5–0). Motion made by Councilman Matamoras; second by Councilman Davis. Chief Motley said the annual agreement carries no net cost to the city and the department receives an allocation from the county (up to $20,000 for departments outside an ESD).

- Resolution 2025‑2969 — Nomination of candidates for the…