Paris council approves tax-abatement, wastewater code changes and accepts May financials; tables development agreement

At its July 13 meeting the Paris City Council approved several non-controversial items, tabled a development agreement and received a financial briefing.

The council voted 5–0 to approve a residential tax-abatement and economic development agreement with R 4 U Ventures LLC under the city’s 5-and-5 housing infill program; staff said the two single-family homes involved are estimated at a combined project value of about $400,000. The council also unanimously adopted an ordinance amending Chapter 12.05 of the Code of Ordinances to strengthen fats, oils and grease (FOG) pretreatment requirements, citing the need to protect the city’s wastewater infrastructure, reduce sanitary sewer overflows and align with state expectations. Staff said the FOG program will add licensing, routine inspections, maintenance tracking and enforcement mechanisms for affected businesses.

City finance staff presented the May financial reports. The presenter said general fund revenues were at 74% of budget year-to-date (an increase of about $308,000 compared with last May), with property-tax collections at 95% of budget. The presenter reported that ambulance billings are down roughly $700,000 year-over-year and provided a snapshot of staffing counts and the city’s cash-and-investment position.

Council also agreed to table consideration of a development agreement with Lone Star Plan Developments LLC related to Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone No. 2 at Forest Brook Boulevard; staff asked for more time to provide required materials and the council moved the item to the July 27 meeting (5–0).

An executive session held under Texas Government Code Section 551.072 to deliberate real-property negotiations produced no action when council reconvened. The meeting ended following routine announcements and scheduling reminders.