Council narrows city campus debate, approves $21.62 million CO to appear on November ballot

The Jersey Village City Council voted to put a $21,620,000 certificate-of-obligation/general-obligation question tied to the proposed city campus on the November ballot after an extended discussion about the project's size, cost and alternatives.

The decision follows more than two hours of public comment and council debate on July 21 in which residents and council members urged caution on the roughly $24 million schematic that has prompted petitions and public concern. Dennis Peterson, a resident of Jersey Village, told the council, "I think that $24,000,000 renovation for the city campus is a waste of taxpayers' money and a prime example of kingdom building." Peterson also questioned the space allocations in the plans and the incentives created by an architect paid a percentage of construction cost.

Why it matters: The council's action puts a defined maximum for the public to consider this fall and frames follow-up work for staff and bond counsel. Council members repeatedly said the dollar amount and scope will be determinative for voters and discussed alternatives…