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Pecos council approves $140,000 to support West of the Pecos Museum after debate over HOT funds and maintenance
Summary
After debate over which city funds should cover parking‑lot and curb repairs, the council amended a museum request and approved $140,000 to support operations and repairs at the West of the Pecos Museum, directing staff to seek ways to reduce the portion funded by hotel‑occupancy taxes.
The Pecos City Council voted May 28 to approve $140,000 in funding for the West of the Pecos Museum, after debating whether city departments should perform some maintenance and whether hotel‑occupancy tax (HOT) funds or the general budget should cover certain repairs.
Museum representatives asked the council for $120,000 for operating support and additional project money for curbing, sidewalks, a handicapped ramp and repainting. The museum also requested reimbursement of approximately $33,808 for repairs to the museum parking lot following a December 2024 train derailment.
"We like to put in what we contribute to the sustaining of the museum," the museum representative said, describing preservation needs for the 100‑year‑old building and related park areas. Council members debated whether curb, gutter and landscaping work should be treated as private property maintenance or a city responsibility; city staff noted the ordinance generally makes property owners responsible to the curb but said the council can direct staff to assist and identify funding sources.
Council discussed directing park staff to pick up some museum maintenance and exploring HOT‑fund usage for ongoing upkeep. Councilman Arona moved and Councilwoman Trevino seconded an amended motion to approve $140,000 total for the museum request; the motion carried by voice vote. Staff was directed to work with museum leadership and park staff to reduce the HOT‑fund impact where feasible and to return with a complete package that balances preservation with stewardship of city funds.
Next steps: staff will return to council with options to reduce HOT‑fund draw by using park‑staff rotations or alternative funding, and to clarify the reimbursement request for the parking‑lot repairs.
