Ennis tables structural‑engineering retainer over scope questions; item set for Aug. 20

The Ennis City Commission discussed and tabled a proposed professional services agreement with IMEG Consultants for structural engineering services after commissioners raised concerns about imprecise scope language.

Staff explained the intent is to have a structural‑engineering firm on retainer to support downtown building assessments, public‑works capital projects and emergency structural evaluations. Commissioners objected to Exhibit A’s narrow wording (limited to “buildings in the downtown area”) and recommended revising the language to include bridges and other structures; they also requested clarity on budgets, task‑order procedures and whether individual projects would return to the commission for approval. One commissioner asked for documentation of criteria staff would use to recommend demolition or legal action for unsafe structures.

City counsel said the commission could approve with broader language or table the item so staff could finalize edits; Commissioner Haney moved to table the item to the Aug. 20 meeting and the motion carried by voice vote.

Why it matters: a retained structural engineer would help the city evaluate unsafe or deteriorating properties, support code enforcement and speed emergency assessments following storms, but commissioners wanted the agreement’s scope and controls clarified before formal approval.

Next steps: staff and counsel will revise Exhibit A (broadening scope to “structures” and clarifying task‑order/budget oversight) and present the amended agreement at the Aug. 20 meeting.