Odessa council backs starting work to rename stretch of Murphy Street for MLK; staff estimate $1,500 for signs

Councilman Mitchell raised a proposal April 8 to rename a portion of Murphy Street on Odessa’s South Side to Martin Luther King Jr. Street and told the work session he had community supporters present. "I really think Odessa needs a MLK MLK somewhere," Councilman Mitchell said.

The proposal as described at the work session would rename Murphy Street from Grant east to I‑20 near Woodson Park. City staff said notices were mailed to property owners and businesses along the affected block two weeks before the meeting; one letter was returned as undeliverable and staff reported no other written objections.

Public Works represented by Joseph Goff provided a preliminary cost estimate. Goff told the council, "Approximately 32 street name signs will need to be replaced," and said the materials and in‑house work would be "approximately 1,500 dollars." He offered to prepare a mock‑up sign for the next meeting.

The mayor authorized staff to begin preparatory work so that when the item returns to council it will be ready for a formal vote. Council asked Norma (city staff) to place the item on the April 22 council meeting agenda at 6 p.m. for formal consideration. Council discussion also included a request to plan a public dedication if the change is approved; the mayor said the earliest celebration would be in 2026, noting the city missed 2025 for scheduling.

No formal ordinance or resolution was passed on April 8; the session produced direction for staff and an agenda placement. The council did not record any written opposition at the meeting; several people present stood to show support when asked.