Waelder City Council accepts resignations, approves budget, advances city projects amid governance concerns

The Waelder City Council met for its regular meeting on Monday, July 8, addressing a full agenda that included two council resignations, major budget approvals, infrastructure negotiations, and various community and operational updates. Interim City Manager Adolph Gonzales provided updates and guidance throughout the evening.

The meeting began with public remarks from Felipe Martinez, who thanked the city on behalf of the Waelder Noon Lions Club for its support of this year’s successful Fourth of July festivities.

Council quickly approved the consent agenda, including minutes from the June 5 and June 10 meetings, paid invoices for June, and monthly financial reports.

In a significant development, the council unanimously accepted the resignations of Councilmembers Michael L. Harris and Peggy Blackmon. With their departure, the five-member council is now down to just three seated members.

This raises a critical issue: without four sitting members, the council would appear to be unable to meet the two-thirds majority required for certain votes, effectively limiting its decision-making capacity on some matters. Thus, approval of a budget and tax increase could be subject to being declared an invalid action by the council. Notably, no discussion was held regarding how or when the vacant seats will be filled.

The council moved forward with adopting an amended budget for the current fiscal year and held a required public hearing on the proposed 2025–2026 city budget. No members of the public commented, and council subsequently approved the new fiscal year budget, along with a resolution ratifying the associated property tax increase with no objection raised by residents in attendance.

Council then turned its attention to broadband negotiations with Rise Broadband, which has proposed new infrastructure installations throughout Waelder. Gonzales expressed concerns about a proposed fiber cabinet location near a city water well but was satisfied with the terms of the pole attachment agreement. Council voted to allow staff to proceed with finalizing negotiations and agreements for the lease, licensing, and pole use.

The city also approved a transition of employee benefits from Texas Municipal League (TML) to Higginbotham Public Sector (HPS), following a presentation from consultant Gilberto Gonzales. He outlined enhanced offerings such as improved technology, billing reconciliation, and increased services while keeping the cost effective and reasonable.

Council also approved the purchase of up to $20,000 in new playground equipment for the city park. Gonzales noted that the outdated equipment has already been removed, and the city plans to install some components in-house to reduce costs. Additionally, council authorized submission of a $25,000 LCRA grant application to help fund the city’s ongoing splash pad project.

As reported in previous meetings, the city’s grant application for the water well project — which had been at risk of not being awarded — remains under review. Gonzales confirmed when asked status by Mayor Diana Olmos that it is still being worked on.

Council approved a resolution allowing St. Patrick’s Church to host its annual Fiesta Guacamole at Waelder City Park from Aug. 29 through Sept. 2.

The city secretary received approval to switch website management services back to the previous provider, citing increasing costs and complications with the current vendor. The council also approved participation in a TML Financial Boot Camp, a program designed to assist cities in reconciling multiple years of outstanding audits. Gonzales explained that TML representatives will travel to Waelder and work directly with city staff to organize, compile, and submit all necessary records—allowing the city to bring its audit schedule back into compliance in one concentrated effort.

The long-delayed sewer main replacement project for Block 52 on South Railroad Street was once again discussed. Gonzales explained that the aging cast iron line must be replaced and noted that one contractor submitted a $14,000 bid. However, the contractor expressed concerns about the slope of the line, which may affect water flow and long-term performance. Due to those concerns, Gonzales is now seeking additional bids before moving forward. Council approved continuing the process of securing a contract once more information is available.

Council also approved a new uniform rental program for the city’s public works department. Gonzales outlined that the switch to a new vendor would nearly double the number of uniforms provided. The new company offers full cleaning, repair, and replacement services — including coverage for lost or stolen items—at no additional charge. Additional services such as restroom dispenser maintenance and supply refills are also included in the bundled contract. The city already uses this company for mats and mop heads, and by expanding the partnership, existing service costs will be reduced, keeping the net cost increase minimal.

In the absence of Administrative Police Chief Jim Taylor, an on-duty officer delivered the monthly police report. No major incidents were noted, though the department reiterated the need for updated equipment and confirmed that inventory assessments are ongoing.

During his city manager’s report, Gonzales noted that the splash pad project remains in the bidding phase. He also reported that 95 delinquent utility accounts were submitted to collections in late May. Although the total amount owed was not disclosed at this meeting, only $207 has been recovered to date.

Gonzales shared that the newly contacted library board will hold its first meeting on July 23. Other updates included new park benches, installation of a sound system in collaboration with the Lions Club, and ongoing utility pole replacements.

Councilmember Zapata inquired about the planned 1,500-foot walking track at the soccer field. Martinez reported that materials are on the way. The Lions Club is also working on updated signage for the park.

The meeting concluded with council thanking Gonzales for his continued efforts as interim city manager. While all agenda items were approved, the absence of a plan to fill the two vacant council seats leaves questions about the city’s ability to effectively govern in the weeks ahead.