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Item 1 - Call to Order
The City Council of the City of Wichita Falls, Texas, met in a regular session at 8:30 a.m.
on the above date in the Seminar Room at the MPEC with the following members present.
Tim Short - Mayor
Austin Cobb - At-Large
Whitney Flack - District 1
Robert Brooks - District 2
Jeff Browning - District 3
Mike Battaglino - District 4
Tom Taylor - District 5
James McKechnie - Interim City Manager
Kinley Hegglund - City Attorney
Marie Balthrop - City Clerk
Item 2a — Invocation
Minister Ken Holsberry, Tenth & Broad Church of Christ, gave the invocation.
Item 2b — Pledge of Allegiance
Mayor Short led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Item 3a — Employee of the Month — Jaimie Lee, AT&T
Mayor Short recognized Jaimie Lee as Employee of the Month for May 2025 and shared
a brief video. He congratulated Ms. Lee and presented her with a plaque, a letter of
appreciation, dinner for two, and a check, and thanked her for her service.
Item 3b — Proclamation — Building Safety Month in Wichita Falls, City of Wichita
Falls
Mayor Short read a proclamation proclaiming May 2025 as Building Safety Month in
Wichita Falls.
Item 3c —Wichita Falls Citizens' Academy Graduation
Mayor Short recognized the graduates of the Wichita Falls Citizens' Academy and shared
a brief video.
Item 4 — Comments from Citizens
Sherrie Scott, 4805 Bridge Creek Dr., discussed concerns with the tall grass in the
medians in the Bridge Creek Community and multiple potholes in the streets. There is no
HOA to maintain the medians, and it is not safe for residents to mow in that area. She
does not understand why the City does not maintain the medians, and she asked that the
City look into maintaining this area.
Item 5-7 — Consent Items
James McKechnie, Interim City Manager, gave a briefing on the items listed under the
Consent Agenda.
Moved by Councilor Browning to approve the consent agenda.
The motion was seconded by Councilor Battaglino and, with no comments or questions
from the public, carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Mayor Short, Councilors Battaglino, Brooks, Browning, Cobb, Flack, and Taylor.
Nays: None
Item 5 — Approval of May 6, 2025, minutes of the Mayor and City Council
Item 6 — Receive Minutes
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• Water Resources Committee, September 30, 2024
• WFMPO Transportation Policy Committee, January 22, 2025
• Lake Wichita Revitalization, April 8, 2025
• Planning & Zoning Commission, March 12, 2025
• Central Wichita Falls Neighborhood Revitalization Committee, April 15, 2025
• Tax Increment Financing #3 Board, April 17, 2025
• Central Wichita Falls Neighborhood Revitalization Committee, April 29, 2025
Item 7a— Resolution 55-2025
Resolution authorizing award of bid for demolition, clearing, and cleaning of 11 properties
to Chad & Brandi, Inc., DBA Wilson Contracting, in the amount of $55,433.00.
Item 7b — Resolution 56-2025
Resolution authorizing the City Manager to award bid and contract for the Hike and Bike
trail from Camp Fire Property to Lucy Park to JLT Contracting LLC in the amount of
$1 ,885,606.40.
Item 7c — Resolution 57-2025
Resolution reviewing and approving the updated investment policy for the City of Wichita
Falls.
Item 8a — Ordinance 22-2025
Ordinance amending the code of ordinances Chapter 50, Article II, Section 34 to increase
the number in the Firefighter rank from 72 to 76 for the purposes of reducing the use of
overtime and to assist with the Crisis Aid Response Team (CART).
Moved by Councilor Battaglino to approve Ordinance 22-2025.
The motion was seconded by Councilor Taylor and, with no comments or questions from
the public, carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Mayor Short, Councilors Battaglino, Brooks, Browning, Cobb, Flack, and Taylor.
Nays: None
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Item 9a(i) — Public hearing on declaring the City of Wichita Falls' eligibility and
intention to participate in the Texas Tax Abatement Program to promote
development and redevelopment, and adopt guidelines and criteria for tax
abatement in the Heart of the Falls Neighborhood Revitalization Area
Mayor Short opened the Public Hearing at 8:53 a.m.
Fabian Medellin discussed the guidelines and criteria for tax abatement in the Heart of
the Falls Neighborhood Revitalization Zone. This program is another tool to provide
incentives, stimulate growth, and revitalize the area, including both residential and
commercial properties. It is transferable and expires in 10 years.
Mayor Short closed the public hearing at 8:57 a.m.
Item 9a(ii) — Resolution 58-2025
Resolution declaring the City of Wichita Falls' eligibility and intention to participate in the
Texas Tax Abatement Program to promote development and redevelopment, and adopt
guidelines and criteria for tax abatement in the Heart of the Falls Neighborhood
Revitalization Area.
Moved by Councilor Battaglino to approve Resolution 58-2025.
The motion was seconded by Councilor Taylor and, with no comments or questions from
the public, carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Mayor Short, Councilors Battaglino, Brooks, Browning, Cobb, Flack, and Taylor.
Nays: None
Item 9b— Resolution 59-2025
Resolution authorizing the City Manager or his designee to make application for a grant
from the Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority (MVCPA), FY 2026 Request for
Application — SB 224 Catalytic Converter Grant in the amount up to $305,000.
Moved by Councilor Battaglino to approve Resolution 59-2025.
The motion was seconded by Councilor Cobb and, with no comments or questions from
the public, carried by the following vote:
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Ayes: Mayor Short, Councilors Battaglino, Brooks, Browning, Cobb, Flack, and Taylor.
Nays: None
Item 9c — Resolution 60-2025
Resolution announcing the termination of Stage 1 Drought Watch water use restrictions
and the resumption of the regular water conservation measures described in Section 106-
186(a) of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Wichita Falls.
Moved by Councilor Battaglino to approve Resolution 60-2025.
The motion was seconded by Councilor Taylor.
Linda Brown, 1601 32nd Street, asked how long it would take the Council to reinstate
drought restrictions. Mayor Short stated that restrictions go into effect automatically when
combined lake levels reach 65%.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Mayor Short, Councilors Battaglino, Brooks, Browning, Cobb, Flack, and Taylor.
Nays: None
Item 10— Public hearing and discussion regarding a proposed addition to the City's
Circle Trail system adjacent to Lake Wichita within City-owned property.
Mayor Short opened the public hearing at 9:08 a.m.
Kalee Robinson, Parks Director, provided a history of the construction of the Circle Trail,
which is over 20 miles long, and most sections are 10 feet wide. Construction on the trail
began in 1987, five major sections have been completed, and two sections need to be
completed. One section is by Lucy Park, which is currently under construction, and the
section by Lake Wichita, which we are discussing today. The majority of the trail has been
grant-funded, it is a major part of our Parks Master Plan, and connects green spaces
citywide while supporting the mission of high-quality, accessible recreation for all. Ms.
Robinson thanked Tyson Traw and Alex Sandstedt for their work on the project and
shared a brief video highlighting the Circle Trail.
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Councilor Taylor asked about future spurs connecting to the trail, and Ms. Robinson said
those are important and would be looked at after the trail is completed.
Tyson Traw, Deputy Director of Public Works, presented details about the history of Lake
Wichita, the adjacent property, and the proposed trail extension adjacent to Lake Wichita.
He reviewed the project's history, grant funding, alternative routes, and the TxDOT
application. Mr. Traw explained modifications made to the lake by the U.S. Army Corps
of Engineers (USACE) following the 1995 flood and provided images showing historical
and current lake boundaries and property ownership. He outlined the challenges
associated with alternative trail routes, including higher costs, the need for right-of-way
acquisitions, utility relocations, and safety concerns, all of which could impact grant
funding approval. The proposed route is less expensive, requires no right-of-way
acquisition or utility relocation, and meets safety standards. Mr. Traw also addressed
citizen concerns about the trail's proximity to homes, lighting issues, crime, and loitering.
To prevent vehicular access, bollards will be installed along the trail. This new section,
approximately 0.09 miles long and will complete the Circle Trail, which was initiated over
20 years ago by Jack Murphy. Staff will be available after the meeting to address any
additional community concerns.
Councilor Cobb stated he supports the trail and asked about the impact on wetlands. Mr.
Traw stated that wetlands will be avoided or the impact limited with bridges following
USACE rules. The section close to Larry's Marina will have a bridge over the connection
of the boat launch to the lake, and there is a lease agreement with the City for that area.
Councilor Taylor asked that they expound on right-of-way acquisition. Mr. Traw stated
that no right-of-way acquisition is required for the proposed trail. There is one area where
we would prefer to have a right-of-way, but we can reroute the trail if needed.
Councilor Flack asked about the grant timeline. Mr. Traw stated that the application will
be submitted on June 20th, and we will find out around October if we have been awarded
the grant.
Councilor Battaglino thanked staff for their presentation. Since being elected, he has held
six town hall meetings, and this issue has come up at every one. He encouraged citizens
to meet with staff after the meeting to get answers to any questions they have.
Gary Morath, 5311 Lakeshore Dr., stated that he has had his land surveyed several times,
and in one area of his property, there is only 5 feet between his property line and the
water, which would require a large bridge to go over the water. He is not against the bike
trail, but he purchased lakefront property so he would not have to worry about people in
his backyard. He asked why the trail cannot go along the property the city owns along
Fairway and the easement across to Barnett. There was a brief discussion regarding the
ownership of the land and where the water is currently behind Mr. Morath's property.
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Becky Raeke, 2420 Reilly Road, discussed her desire to see the circle trail completed,
how it serves our community, the physical and mental benefits of outdoor activities, and
how local groups use the trail. She understands concerns regarding the placement of the
trail, but the reality is that there are many more citizens who will benefit from the trail and
support its completion. She thanked Councilor Battaglino and Mayor Short for how often
they use the trail and encourage others to use the trail, and thanked Councilor Taylor for
advocating for a connection to the North side of the City. Ms. Raeke discussed statements
made by various candidates in 2023 regarding bicycle safety, the completion of the circle
trail, connecting the trail to Sheppard Air Force Base, and she requested that rest areas
with water be added to the trail.
Moriah Williams, 4806 George, is a trail user and represents the Chamber of Commerce
and Economic Development Team. She discussed the trail's importance for quality of life
and feels it is important to finish it. The trail drives economic development through various
events, and people from all over come to ride and train on it.
Thomas Murray, 3019 Whitehall Lane, leads the Couch to 5K and Donut Run. He
discussed the move of their training to the trail after riders were killed on the road and the
growth of the groups since the move. The trail needs to be finished, and he asked that
the City keep up with mowing and clean up, keeping the grass and limbs off the trail. He
also asked for a bridge over Southwest Parkway and Barnett for safety issues.
Diana Snow, 4811 Marsha Lane, discussed the trail's importance to mental health and
challenged the Council to ride or walk the trail. She asked why it had taken this long to
complete the trail and emphasized its mental and physical health benefits. She thanked
various citizens for their support of and involvement with the trail.
David Coleman, 3719 Cedar Elm Lane, discussed the amazing job the parks department
did clearing the trail after the flood, and thanked them for their work, and thanked Public
Works for flood mitigation. He supports the application of the grant, he believes cyclists
do care about the residents along Lakeshore Drive, he appreciates staff working with
Larry's Marina, and he agrees that bollards are needed to keep vehicles off the trail. He
is a big believer in property rights, but the City owns the land and has to use it for the
highest and best use. He feels the trail is the best option and is fiscally responsible.
Judy Whittington, 5102 Lakeshore Drive, asked if the meeting after this would be recorded
as an official part of this meeting, and was told that it would not. She stated conflicting
information has been given over the years, and she believes it is nice to have a record of
both sides. Mr. Hegglund stated that legally, it cannot be a part of this meeting. Mr.
McKechnie stated that it is a question-and-answer session. It was noted that she can
record and keep the information herself. She feels the Lakeshore residents support and
use the trail, but feels there is a conflict between the plans residents had when they
purchased their property, and the city's plan.
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Brad Fisk, 4115 Stearns Ave., supports completing the trail. As a lifelong cyclist, he has
had many negative encounters with vehicles while riding, and has lost friends who were
hit by vehicles, and he asked that the trail's safety be considered. He uses the circle trail
because he does not have to worry about being hit by a vehicle on it.
Casandra Castro, 1201 Austin Street, a cyclist and runner, is excited about completing
the trail and supports it for safety and mental health.
Steve Garner, 2806 South Shepherds Glen, discussed his long-time support of the trail
and his passion for Lake Wichita. He discussed improvements made at Lake Wichita to
assist with ease of use, the completion of the Veterans Memorial Plaza, and how
completing this section of the trail will enhance that even more. He enjoys using the trail
several times a week, and having this option for citizens to see wildlife, nature, and have
recreational opportunities will be great. He thanked the Council for their work and asked
that they move forward with completing the trail.
Linda Brown, 1601 32nd Street, supports the trail but addressed concerns about dogs on
it. She believes the trail is a good thing that the entire city can enjoy, but she does not
hear anything about continuous upkeep, and expressed concerns about debris on the
trail and loose animals. She understands there is a cost to maintain the trail, but asked
that it be addressed.
Blake Jurecek, Assistant City Manager, discussed the continual maintenance being done,
the solutions they have considered, and the fact that trail maintenance is included in the
master plan.
Mike Mitchell, 1805 10th Street, supports the trail and stated that many others use it
besides cyclists and runners. He and his family have used the trail and hiked with friends.
The Scout Troop meets along the trail, and the troop has used the trail to earn merit
badges, and there are many benefits to the trail. Veterans also use the trail for rucking,
and he encouraged the Council to complete the trail.
Glen Barham, 3506 Copperas Cove, addressed the trail from the perspective of his time
on the Police Department and from his service on the City Council. He said the trail has
always been in the Master Plan and has remained in the Capital Improvement Plan, and
it is time for this project to be completed. He understands we are waiting on funding, and
he encouraged the Council to continue to work toward completing the trail. It is a gem for
this community and is priceless from an economic development perspective.
Randy Ledford, 5127 Lakeshore Dr., expressed his support for completing the trail, but
stated reports say the lake is one of the nastiest in Texas. Mr. Ledford said most of the
residents in the area are seniors, and they feel bullied. The trail will block off access to
his dock, and said that cannot be done in Lakeside City East or West. He said they have
lived there for twenty-five years and paid for curbs and gutters, but none were installed,
and he would like to see citizens reimbursed. One of the biggest travesties is that this
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could put a boat service out of business, and the City helps big business, but will destroy
Larry's Marina or other small businesses. He feels there should be more research on the
wetlands, endangered species, and expressed concerns for his access to the lake. He
discussed eminent domain and right-of-way that would have to be acquired, and it was
noted that there is no eminent domain or acquisition of land for this portion of the trail.
Mr. Ledford expressed concerns with the trail being on his property, and it was noted that
his dock is on city property.
Mr. Schreiber stated that the entire trail will be on city property, and the intent is not to
acquire any land. He will be happy to discuss the changes from the last proposed trail
location and the current proposed location with Mr. Ledford.
Michael Kurts, 3215 Idlewood Drive, a member of the American Legion Post and frequent
user of the trail, stated that his biggest concerns are the area behind the Post and safety.
He asked how the City would protect people on the trail and discussed issues with
burglary and loose dogs. Mr. Kurts discussed environmental concerns, trash, and
difficulties installing fences due to the ground there, and asked how the City plans to
protect the citizens and enforce ordinances.
Mayor Short stated that there are twenty miles of trails behind other homes, and these
issues are not new. When he sees dogs, he calls and reports them.
Councilor Taylor stated that the trash issue is not just along the trail; it is an issue
throughout the city, and individuals need to report areas that need to be addressed.
Mayor Short closed the public hearing at 10:28 a.m.
Item 11 a—Staff Reports— Update and Discussion on the Current Downtown Master
Plan— Paul Menzies
Paul Menzies, Assistant City Manager, presented an update on the 2018 Downtown
Master Plan. The Strategic Plan includes determining the need to update the 2018
Downtown Master Plan, and that is the discussion point for today. He discussed the
previous Downtown Steering Committee, the consultant that was hired to develop a
Streetscape Plan, the failed bond election in 2018, and the expense involved in making
the area more pedestrian-friendly. Mr. Menzies discussed code enforcement efforts,
funding opportunities, including TIF #4, and Downtown Zoning. He discussed progress
that has been made on the Downtown Master Plan and the need to discuss the plan
moving forward.
Councilor Cobb discussed the improvements that have been made and the need for
further discussions about updating the plan.
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Councilor Flack asked about the progress in the streets and lights program. Mr. Jurecek
stated that a decision was made in February to focus on a smaller area downtown. The
boring work is about 85% completed, and lights will be set in the near future. There is
also an ongoing intersection project.
Mayor Short said he appreciates the work and believes we need to update the plan.
Item 11 b—Announcements concerning items of community interest from members
of the City Council. No action will be taken or discussed.
Councilor Cobb thanked everyone who attended today. He discussed the comment
regarding Lake Wichita being one of the dirtiest lakes and said that the video is from the
2015 drought and does not represent the current status. He got to ride the new Riptide
Racer and encouraged everyone to visit Castaway Cove and to be safe this Memorial
Day weekend.
Councilor Brooks thanked everyone who attended today and thanked everyone who
participated in the cleanup with Adrian Colbert.
Councilor Flack encouraged everyone to use the Circle Trail, stop at the splash pad in
Hamilton Park, and enjoy the outdoors. She enjoys using the trail several times a week.
The splash pad is free and a great place to cool off. She congratulated all of the high
school and college graduates and encouraged them to apply for jobs in Wichita Falls.
Councilor Browning wished everyone a happy Memorial Day weekend.
Councilor Taylor reminded everyone to use Access City Hall to report complaints. He
encouraged staff to continue to work on the customer service culture and to keep up the
good work. He encouraged citizens to volunteer to participate in boards and commissions,
and said he will be holding a Town Hall meeting on June 24th for District 5. He
congratulated Jaimie for being the employee of the month, and said he was excited to
see the properties on the demolition list. Councilor Taylor encouraged everyone to
continue to conserve water and discussed sidewalk gap concerns in District 5 and on the
Eastside. He recently talked with Dr. Lee about support for sidewalks leading to schools,
and will also visit with the Burkburnett ISD. He asked for an update on the Conoco Dog
Park at a future meeting.
Councilor Battaglino thanked Ashley Sisk, Bike Friendly Wichita Falls Coordinator, for her
work with his daughter at a recent bike training class. He encouraged everyone to check
out Live Well Wichita County to sign up for classes. He expressed his thanks for the
invitation to the Wichita Theater for a special showing of Sheer Madness, which is
outrageously funny. He thanked the Wild Bird Rescue on Lakeshore Drive, as he and his
daughter took a small dove there yesterday, and encouraged everyone to check it out.
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He thanked Adrian Colbert for the cleanup at Jalonick Park, and said the next cleanup is
June 13th. Councilor Battaglino said Councilor Cobb mentioned the Riptide Racer, but did
not mention the new bacon-wrapped hot dog, which is another winner at Castaway Cove.
He expressed his thanks to Base Camp Lindsay for setting up the Give a Ruck to end
veteran homelessness. He encouraged everyone to visit the National Medal of Honor
Museum in Arlington, Texas, and discussed various upcoming events.
Mayor Short discussed the Ride with the Mayor at 6:00 p.m. tomorrow night in Hamilton
Park. The funds raised will support the Vasquez family, and he encouraged donations
and prayers.
Item 12 — Executive Session
The City Council adjourned into Executive Session at 10:57 a.m. in accordance with
Texas Government Code §551.071 , §551 .072, §551 .074, and §551 .087.
Mayor Short reconvened the meeting in open session at 12:10 p.m. and announced that
no votes or polls were taken.
Item 13 — Adjourn
Mayor Short adjourned the meeting at 12:11 p.m.
PASSED AND APPROVED this 17th day of June 2025.
Tim hort, Mayor
ATTEST:
Marie Balthrop, TRM , MMC
City Clerk
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