Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Community Events topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Kyle council directs staff to work with nonprofits on options for 2027 Pride event, 5-2
Summary
Following hours of public comment and debate, the council voted 5-2 to direct the city manager to return with formats and estimated costs for a possible city-supported LGBTQ+ Pride event in 2027, emphasizing nonprofit partnerships and options that could be budget-neutral.
After extended public comment both for and against, the Kyle City Council voted to direct the city manager to return with options for a possible city-supported LGBTQ+ pride event in 2027.
Councilwoman Claudia Zapata introduced the narrowly scoped request, saying it would simply ask staff to present formats and cost estimates — including low-cost, partnership, or budget-neutral options — so council could decide what, if anything, to support.
"This agenda item does not mandate a large event… It simply asks staff to develop reasonable options," Zapata said, adding that city recognition matters to residents who feel marginalized. Councilmember Laura Lee Harris supported the item, noting partnership approaches could keep costs low.
Opponents said the city should avoid using taxpayer dollars to sponsor identity-based celebrations. "Our city government exists to provide essential services… It should not use public resources to promote social or political causes that divide our community," said Joshua Ronson during public comment.
Council discussion led to a motion — put forward by Mayor Pro Tem Tobias and seconded by others — that directed staff to work with community organizations, nonprofits and relevant city departments (parks, arts and culture) and to bring back specific formats and estimated staff costs for the event. The motion passed 5 to 2.
The approved action does not commit city funds; staff will return with a report that will include proposed formats, estimated costs, and options for sponsorships or third-party funding. Councilmember Goza said private groups have offered to support planning, and several residents and nonprofit representatives offered to partner.
Councilmembers who voted in favor emphasized community recognition and partnership; those opposed cited fiscal restraint and concerns about setting a precedent for city funding of identity-based events. The item was added to the workplan for follow-up and staff will present cost estimates and potential staffing needs in a future meeting.
The motion and vote were part of a larger agenda that also included forensic-audit items and a briefing on transportation projects.
