Odessa aldermen amend code to require 48-hour packet availability; ordinance adopted

The Odessa Board of Aldermen voted unanimously late in the meeting to adopt an ordinance requiring that meeting packets be made available 48 hours before board meetings, exclusive of weekends and holidays, and to add language consistent with the state Sunshine Law.

Supporters said the change gives both elected members and the public more time to review materials. "I would like 48 hours — it gives us time to look through packets and reach out to staff if we have questions," said a lawmaker (S7). Legal counsel advised the board that the Sunshine Law’s 24-hour requirement excludes weekends and holidays and that the ordinance could mimic that language; members ultimately chose the longer 48-hour standard.

The ordinance (Bill 2026-25 as amended) was introduced, amended on the floor to add the Sunshine Law verbiage and then approved on a roll-call vote that carried 6–0. The chair confirmed the amendment will be added to the version of the ordinance in the packet before submission to the mayor for signature; the adopted ordinance received number 3189.

During debate, staff and outside advisers warned that earlier packet release can slow some administrative processes, especially for cities with frequent meetings, but members argued the trade-off is justified by improved public trust. "Our strategic priorities report notes persistent lack of trust and transparency between government and residents," said another lawmaker (S4), explaining support for extra notice.

The board also directed staff to return an ordinance that cross-references and updates other code sections and meeting-procedure rules that currently state "24 hours," so the code will be consistent across chapters. The board voted to direct staff unanimously.

What happens next: staff will prepare the final amended ordinance for the mayor’s signature and will draft companion changes to the code and rules of meeting procedure for the board’s future consideration.