Workshop reviews McElroy drainage, park upgrades, library costs and animal‑shelter plans

Council members used the budget workshop to review capital‑project sequencing and maintenance needs across public works, parks and community facilities.

Staff described 'System 3' — a conceptual drainage project tied to McElroy Boulevard that would extend drainage from McElroy, cross the railroad and TxDOT right‑of‑way to the National Guard property. Engineering design was added to the CIP this year, but staff said construction funding will depend on grants, TxDOT coordination and multi‑year prioritization.

‘‘We added the conceptual design to the CIP this year; funding construction will depend on grants or TxDOT and will likely happen over multiple years,’’ staff (Speaker 15) said. Staff listed potential grant sources, including a $180,000 CDBG line, typical Green Ribbon grants near $400,000 and HSIP applications that could cover multiple safety projects (with a cumulative potential in that modeling around $800,000), but cautioned award likelihood varies by program.

Parks staff and council debated $54,000 in outfield fence windscreen slats at the adult softball field to improve batter sightlines and safety; staff noted the field sits in a floodplain and the Army Corps of Engineers has limited grading changes that would otherwise make surface improvements harder. Council also discussed asking user groups to contribute and the role of the beautification committee in ongoing upkeep.

Facility issues included adding permanent storage for the rec center (a $10,000 estimate that includes a concrete pad), weekly deep cleaning for the community center (staff received an updated quote and recommended weekly service at about $185 per service), and an inventory/maintenance approach for p‑card purchases versus keeping bulk supplies in‑house.

Animal‑services staff reported prior repairs at the current shelter (AC units, kennel walls) and discussed shading, artificial turf and a portable transfer switch; staff estimated some shading options in the $48,000–$62,000 range and said a new permanent shelter remains a 3–5 year prospect depending on bonding and prioritization.

The council asked staff for a concise, one‑page 'slick sheet' showing road and drainage priorities for 2025–2029 and requested follow‑up information on grant applications and project timing. Staff will return with CIP priority summaries and grant application status in a future report.