City reports: police and fire activity, ambulance subscription push and fall community events

City staff and council members delivered operational updates and community announcements during the meeting.

Police: The police department reported 118 calls for service in the prior month (a decline of roughly 30–40 calls from the previous period) and 134 alcohol checks. The department is participating in a Department of Defense equipment program that could provide rescue tools (including "jaws of life") at no cost; staff also discussed exploring vehicle-lease options through a vendor to outfit patrol vehicles.

Fire: The fire department recorded six calls in September—two wrecks, three fires and one lift assist—and outlined upcoming state training using a donated vehicle for extrication practice.

Ambulance funding: Council members discussed ambulance funding options and urged residents to subscribe to the city ambulance service to avoid a county tax; the recorded subscription rate was described as "around 50%" and the council set an internal goal of about 75%.

Events and programs: The council announced a housing workshop on Nov. 4 at Mills Point at 6 p.m.; Prayer on the Bluff scheduled for Oct. 15 (feeding event and service); the Pecan Festival on Oct. 18 at Jeffery Park (9 a.m. to 6 p.m.) including vendors and musical acts; and Halloween activities at city hall for children from 5 to 6:30 p.m. City hall will close Oct. 16–17 for computer and software upgrades; new machines ordered will be compliant with Windows 11 and current security standards.

No formal city action was recorded on the operational reports; the items were presented for the council's information and follow-up where appropriate.