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Council advances resident-assistance ideas and recovery work; TxDOT sidewalk and marina projects discussed
Summary
Council discussed a proposed utility 'round-up' program to help residents who cannot pay water bills, a volunteer debris-removal program funded by surplus tip revenue, and progress on TxDOT sidewalk work at Morgan's Point Road; marina dock repairs and potential fee changes were also discussed.
Council members discussed several community-recovery and resident-assistance proposals, including a staff-backed plan to explore a utility 'round-up' donation program and an organized debris-removal volunteer effort, and received updates about TxDOT sidewalk work and marina repairs.
On resident assistance, a council member asked for a consensus to begin developing a roundup program so customers could voluntarily 'round up' utility bills and the city would hold the funds in a protected account to assist residents who face short-term inability to pay. Staff cautioned that any program would require an ordinance, strict controls to prevent misuse, and a defined approval process for disbursements. Council members expressed general support for studying the concept.
Council also reviewed a debris-removal volunteer program funded in part by extra tip-related revenue. Staff described a three-phase approach: (1) manual debris collection in priority neighborhoods, (2) chainsaw and crew-supported removal of larger debris, and (3) ongoing maintenance. Staff noted that some chainsaws have been purchased and brush-drop bins are available. The program is intended to supplement Texas A&M Forest Service and other partners; staff said the city will budget for the effort and return with a budget amendment when revenue is formally received.
On infrastructure, staff reported TxDOT crews are working on sidewalks and a crosswalk near Morgan's Point Road (transcript references the location and work as a TxDOT pass-through project). The council discussed requesting signage or lights at the new crosswalk to improve pedestrian safety, especially for children. Staff said TxDOT has the funding and could install signage, and staff will follow up with TxDOT representatives.
Marina updates: staff said approved marina repairs from December are mostly complete; remaining dock reflow work (referred to as Dock D and Dock E) likely will require funding in a future year. A historical estimate of about $300,000 for dock work was cited, though staff emphasized that final cost and timing depend on audit outcomes and confirmed funding.
Next steps: staff will draft ordinance language if council wants to pursue a round-up program, will scope and budget the debris-removal program for future consideration, and will follow up with TxDOT and Corps of Engineers representatives on crosswalk signage and marina expansion/fee questions.
