Council approves park renaming, childcare tax break, housing credit support, street project and multiple contracts

Amarillo — The Amarillo City Council on Feb. 25 approved a series of resolutions, contracts and an ordinance that together affect parks, childcare tax policy, affordable housing, tourism planning, city contracts and a major street reconstruction.

Votes at a glance

- Renamed Medical Center Park to John Ward Memorial Park (Resolution 02‑25‑25‑4) — council approved a resolution to rename Medical Center Park in honor of former city manager John Ward following a public hearing and a park board recommendation. Outcome: approved. (Public hearing and vote occurred during the Feb. 25 meeting.)

- Childcare property tax exemption (Ordinance 81803) — council adopted a local option exemption under Texas Prop 2 for qualifying licensed childcare facilities that participate in the Texas Rising Star program and meet income‑mix criteria. Council set the exemption at 100%. Outcome: ordinance adopted.

- Support for Tacovis Terrace affordable housing tax‑credit application (Resolution 02‑25‑25‑6) — council approved a resolution of support for Woda Cooper Development’s application for 9% federal housing tax credits for a proposed 80‑unit affordable…