Pampa approves TxDOT multiuse agreement for license-plate readers as part of Panhandle anti-theft grant

The Pampa City Commission voted to adopt Resolution R25-022, approving a multiuse agreement with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) that formalizes installation, maintenance and operation responsibilities for license-plate readers (LPRs) on certain state highways within Pampa. Staff described the cameras as part of a regional grant program administered through the Panhandle Auto Theft and Burglary Task Force and managed centrally by Potter County.

Why it matters: The cameras are part of a multi-jurisdictional effort to curb vehicle theft and are already installed on several locations of state highway within city limits, staff said. The agreement clarifies who is responsible for damage and maintenance on state rights-of-way and authorizes the city manager or mayor to sign the updated agreement as requested by TxDOT.

Details provided at the meeting: Staff said the initial year of the program was 100% grant-funded and that the city's ongoing share has stepped down to 20 percent; staff provided an estimated per-camera annual cost to the city of "just a little over 5,000." A staff member said Pampa has eight cameras allocated through the regional program and that three of those cameras are located on state highway segments (Highway 70, Hobart and Perryton Parkway locations). Potter County was described as the hub that administers the program across 26 counties in the Texas Panhandle.

Action: The commission approved Resolution R25-022 and authorized the mayor or city manager to execute the agreement. There were no recorded opposing votes on the motion at the meeting.

Ending: Staff said the cameras were already installed and the agreement is largely a paperwork step to match TxDOT's revised process and clarify liability and signature authority for the city.