Loading...
Min 01/20/2026 City of Wichita Falls City Council Meeting ' si Minutes14)1C. ' f ,,.ti.. 4i4 16' January 20, 2026 • TEXAS 005' Rime-Skies:4eiderfr Ofp tuniti,. 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/Mayor Pro Tem Tom Taylor - District 5 Jeffery Jenkins - City Manager Kinley Hegglund - City Attorney Marie Balthrop - City Clerk Mayor Short called the meeting to order at 8:30 a.m. Item 2a — Invocation Pastor Martha Hagan, Trinity United Methodist Church, gave the invocation. Item 2b — Pledge of Allegiance Mayor Short led the Pledge of Allegiance. Item 3a — Proclamation — WFISD Combined London Bands Day Mayor Short read a proclamation proclaiming January 1 , 2026, as WFISD Combined London Bands Day. Mrs. Balthrop stated that the City has reached a tentative agreement with the owners of 401 Broad Street, and, as such, agenda items 9(a) and 10(a) will be removed from the agenda. Item 4 — Comments from Citizens Cathy Dodson, 3503 Glenwood Avenue, addressed the Council regarding alleged harassment involving Fire Engine No. 8 in her neighborhood. She stated that fire personnel repeatedly sounded an air horn near her residence and disputed explanations previously provided to her regarding the activity. Ms. Dodson referenced a prior appearance before the Council in December 2024, stated that she submitted photographs, and requested a review of the fire engine's GPS data. She further expressed concerns regarding the handling of her complaint and urged the Council to review the matter. Ben Remmert, 4203 York Street, addressed the Council in support of Police Chief Borrego. He stated that, based on his prior experience in public information and his interactions with the Police Department, he believes the Chief's leadership has been exemplary. Mr. Remmert referenced the Police Department's response to a recent incident, noting that an internal investigation was initiated, personnel actions were taken, and the matter was referred to the Texas Rangers. He expressed his support for the Chief and confidence in his leadership. Christina Devore, Wichita Falls, addressed the Council regarding allegations of misconduct by a police officer in 2019 and concerns related to the handling of her complaint. She stated that she later reported the incident, expressed dissatisfaction with the Police Department's response and follow-up, and raised concerns about departmental accountability and leadership oversight. Ms. Devore urged the Council to take action to improve accountability and restore public trust. Robert Mitchell, 1501 Archer City Highway, addressed the Council regarding a recent incident involving the Wichita Falls Police Department. He spoke about the importance of transparency, accountability, and leadership, referenced the Police Chief's public statements on officer misconduct, and expressed concern about the lack of public response from City leadership. Mr. Mitchell stated that he believed action should be taken and that changes in Police Department leadership should be considered. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES January 20, 2026 PAGE 2 OF 1 Madeline Chappell, 401 Madison, addressed the Council regarding concerns about police accountability and economic challenges on the east side of Wichita Falls. She referenced a recent police incident, raised concerns about officer bias, and called for accountability. Ms. Chappell also discussed the effects of floodplain regulations and funding decisions on east-side businesses and development, and encouraged the City to work with the community to promote equitable investment and infrastructure solutions. Dr. Samuel Abbott, 2800 Hollywood Ave., addressed the Council regarding community trust and consistency in City services. He discussed perceived inconsistencies in code enforcement, service response times, and complaint handling, and emphasized the impact of transparency on public trust. Dr. Abbott offered several recommendations, including publishing service and response data by district, clarifying decision-making criteria, strengthening complaint and appeal processes, investing in preventative and community-based programs, and considering the creation of a fairness and equity commission. John Hutchinson, 3503 Glenwood Ave., addressed the Council regarding concerns about systemic inequities, policing practices, and community trust. He referenced conditions affecting minority neighborhoods, expressed concerns about over policing and accountability within the Police Department, and cited a recent incident involving Victoria Lang as an example of broader issues. Mr. Hutchinson called for transparency, accountability, and changes in Police Department leadership, and urged the City to take action to address these concerns. Crystal Washington, 700 Juarez, addressed the Council regarding concerns about policing practices and accountability. She referenced a recent incident involving Victoria Lang, expressed concerns about long-standing issues on the east side of Wichita Falls, including enforcement practices and responsiveness to complaints, and stated that she believed the officers involved should face criminal charges. Ms. Washington urged the City to pursue accountability and justice. Paul Mason Jr., President of the Wichita Falls NAACP, addressed the Council regarding community concerns related to an August 2025 incident involving former police officers. He stated that the NAACP supports local law enforcement and respects the ongoing investigation, while also expressing concerns about accountability, adherence to established standards, and community trust. Mr. Mason called for transparency, including the release of demographic data on arrests and citations, and for the consideration of a community oversight or review council. Alijah Bell, 208 E. Wichita, addressed the Council regarding her personal experience with law enforcement following a microburst event in August 2023. She described the encounter as traumatic and expressed concerns about officer conduct, use of force, and equitable treatment. Ms. Bell emphasized the need for improved training, including de- CITY COUNCIL MINUTES January 20, 2026 PAGE 3 OF 1 1 escalation, mental health response, and bias awareness, and urged the Council to take transparent and compassionate steps to rebuild community trust. Mayor Short announced issues with the Facebook livestream and recessed the meeting at 9:10 a.m. The meeting was reconvened at 9:24 a.m. Mr. Hegglund addressed the Council and public regarding the City's response to the incident involving Ms. Lang. He stated that Council Members were informed by staff, reviewed the available video, and expressed their concerns and direction for next steps. Mr. Hegglund explained that Council Members are legally prohibited from commenting on matters discussed in executive session and that the Texas Rangers are conducting an active criminal investigation and have requested that the City refrain from public comment until the investigation is concluded. He noted that while specific facts cannot be discussed at this time, the City is reviewing policies and working to improve practices and rebuild trust and transparency. Gonzalo Robles, 4846 Tortuga Trail, spoke in support of Police Chief Borrego on behalf of himself and the Mexican American Veterans Association. He shared positive experiences working with the Chief since 2012 and described him as responsive to community concerns. Mr. Robles encouraged the community to allow the investigation to continue and stated that any needed improvements should be addressed together. Eumeka Brandon, 900 Sally Circle, addressed the Council regarding the restoration of community trust between the City, the Police Department, and residents. She emphasized the importance of transparency and factual review, and suggested an independent, external audit or investigation to examine historical data and complaints. Ms. Brandon stated that a data-driven approach could reduce uncertainty, improve accountability, and help rebuild trust. Samuel Pak, 2918 Kyle Cove, addressed the Council regarding community response to recent events involving the Police Department. He emphasized the importance of compassion, understanding, and allowing established processes to proceed. Mr. Pak stated that he has had positive experiences with the Wichita Falls Police Department and expressed support for Police Chief Borrego, whom he described as a leader who engages the community respectfully. He encouraged patience and mutual understanding as the matter moves forward. Beverly Ellis, 1605 Parkdale, addressed the Council regarding the importance of officer training and community communication. She expressed support for Police Chief Borrego, shared her perspective on policing in Wichita Falls compared to other cities, and referenced low crime statistics related to the east side of the City. Ms. Ellis also emphasized the need for more community engagement through town halls and raised a separate concern regarding trash in her alleyway. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES January 20, 2026 PAGE 4 OF 1 1 Mr. Jenkins addressed the Council and public regarding the incident with Ms. Lang, stating that he was deeply troubled by what occurred and emphasized the City's commitment to a thorough, credible, and long-term response. He noted that the City began reviewing policies and practices without waiting for the conclusion of the criminal investigation and pledged transparency regarding any changes. He also acknowledged City employees who serve with integrity while affirming the importance of accountability. Item 5-8 — Consent Items Marie Balthrop, City Clerk, gave a briefing on the items listed under the Consent Agenda. Moved by Councilor Battaglino to approve the consent agenda. The motion was seconded by Councilor Browning, 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 minutes of the Mayor and City Council (a) December 9-11 , 2025, Special Meeting, Strategic Planning (b) December 16, 2025, Regular Meeting Item 6a — Ordinance 01-2026 Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 12-2023, Ordinance No. 31-2025, and Ordinance No. 56-2025 declaring certain structures as dangerous by allowing additional time to rehabilitate the structures located at 1115 E. Scott Ave., 1111 Rowland Rd., 3800 Shasta Dr., 700 Denver St., and 702 Denver St. Item 7a — Resolution 01-2026 Resolution authorizing award for bid and contract for the replacement of indoor lighting at the Regional Airport, located at 4000 Armstrong Drive, Wichita Falls, TX, to Wichita Falls/Davis Electric Company in the amount of $132,916.00. Item 7b — Resolution 02-2026 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES January 20, 2026 PAGE 5 OF 1 Resolution authorizing contract for the replacement of chiller system compressor at the Regional Airport, located at 4000 Armstrong Dr, Wichita Falls, TX, to Prestige Heating & Air Conditioning Services, LLC in the amount of $139,695.00. Item 7c — Resolution 03-2026 Resolution authorizing the approval of the assignment of the Oklaunion Power Stations LLC Raw Water Contract to Platon Investments LLC. Item 7d — Resolution 04-2026 Resolution authorizing the City Manager to award bid and contract for the 2025 Sewer Budget Utility Improvement Project to Canary Construction, Inc. in the amount of $4,354,041.00. Item 7e — Resolution 05-2026 Resolution to consider economic benefits and support for a proposed historic affordable housing tax credit project, Lucas Lofts, at 2206 Lucas Ave., Wichita Falls, Texas from OPG Lucas Partners, LLC. Item 7f— Resolution 06-2026 Resolution authorizing the City Manager to apply for a Defense Economic Adjustment Assistance Grant (DEAAG)for the Sheppard Air Force Base (SAFB) Flight Line Perimeter Security Fence Project. Item 7g — Resolution 07-2026 Resolution authorizing the purchase of Duty and Training Ammunition through the sole source vendor from SSD International in the amount of $113,668.12. Item 7h — Resolution 08-2026 Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute change order number two to the Memorial Auditorium Furniture Audit, Storage and Procurement Services contract with COI Group LLC in the amount of $500,000. Item 8 — Receive Minutes (a) Heart of the Falls Neighborhood Revitalization Committee, October 7, 2025 (b) Tax Increment Finance District #3, November 5, 2025 (c) Planning & Zoning Commission, November 12, 2025 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES January 20, 2026 PAGE 6 OF 1 1 (d) Wichita Falls —Wichita County Public Health Board Minutes, November 14, 2025 (e) Tax Increment Finance District #3, November 20, 2025 Item 9a — Public Hearing on dangerous structure located at 401 Broad Street This item was pulled from the agenda. Item 10a — Ordinance 02-2026 Ordinance finding the structure at 401 Broad Street to be dangerous; requiring the property owner to demolish said structure within thirty (30) days of the date of this ordinance; and declaring an emergency and immediate effective date. This item was pulled from the agenda. Item 11a — Resolution 09-2026 Resolution approving the programs and expenditures of the Wichita Falls Type B Sales Tax Corporation (4B) by amending the budget to include funding in an amount not to exceed $895,000 to the City of Wichita Falls for Phase 1 of the design and renovation of the waterfalls adjacent to 1-44 and the Wichita River in Wichita Falls, otherwise known as The Falls. Moved by Councilor Battaglino to approve Resolution 09-2026. The motion was seconded by Councilor Taylor. Russell Schreiber, Director of Public Works, gave a presentation covering the evaluation findings, structural issues, and plans to repair The Falls over the next two years. There was a brief discussion regarding the request for qualification process and the maintenance plan moving forward. Sandra Gross, 1834 Adrian, expressed her appreciation for the Wichita Falls site and noted her involvement during the original construction of the Falls. She stated that while she supports ongoing investments in downtown, she would like to see greater attention and upkeep directed toward the original Falls area on the east side. She noted that CITY COUNCIL MINUTES January 20, 2026 PAGE 7 OF 1 several east-side areas could benefit from the proposed funding and suggested that future improvements be considered for those areas. Michael Mitchell, 1805 10th Street, addressed the Council regarding public interest in the Wichita Falls site. He requested clarification on the cost difference between the original project amount and the current proposed amount of $895,000, as well as an explanation of the purpose of the 4B fund and the types of projects it may support. Mr. Schreiber explained that the original evaluation was limited to assessing the condition of the Falls, identifying deficiencies, and determining potential site and visitor experience improvements. He stated that the contract being considered today includes design services, procurement of a Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR), surveying, geotechnical work, and structural analysis to be performed after rock removal, as well as the design of the identified improvements. Mayor Short recessed the meeting at 10:19 a.m. due to the Facebook livestream being down. Mr. Jurecek discussed internet issues caused by a line being cut and stated that the meeting is being recorded and will be posted in its entirety on the website. Mayor Short reconvened the meeting at 10:24 a.m. Paul Menzies, Assistant City Manager, stated that voters approved the 4B sales tax in 1997, dedicating a quarter-cent to fund eligible quality-of-life projects as defined by state law, including tourism, parks, athletic facilities, and demolition. He explained that the Falls project and the proposed tennis facility both qualify for 4B funding due to their tourism, park, and athletic-related purposes, and noted that additional information about 4B funding is available on the City's website. The motion carried by the following vote: Ayes: Mayor Short, Councilors Battaglino, Brooks, Browning, Cobb, Flack, and Taylor. Nays: None Item 11 b — Resolution 10-2026 Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute an amendment to the professional services agreement with Garver LLC for rehabilitation of the Falls, in the amount of $895,000. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES January 20, 2026 PAGE 8 OF 1 1 Moved by Councilor Battaglino to approve Resolution 10-2026. The motion was seconded by Councilor Cobb 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 11 c — Resolution 11-2026 Resolution approving the programs and expenditures of the Wichita Falls Type B Sales Tax Corporation (4B) by amending the budget to include funding in an amount not to exceed $1 ,500,000 to the City of Wichita Falls to assist in the planned renovations of the Hamilton Park Tennis Center in Wichita Falls. Moved by Councilor Battaglino to approve Resolution 08-2025. 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 12 — Announcements concerning items of community interest from members of the City Council. No action will be taken or discussed. Councilor Cobb addressed the public regarding the recent arrest of Ms. Lang, stating that the incident was troubling and acknowledging the community's concerns, pain, and anger. He emphasized that Ms. Lang deserved dignity and expressed confidence that Police Chief Borrego is cooperating with the Texas Rangers' investigation and reviewing policies and training. Councilor Cobb stated his commitment to ensuring accountability and meaningful reform. He concluded his remarks with community announcements and condolences extended to the Mills family. Councilor Brooks addressed the public, referencing the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and stating that the phrase "silence is betrayal" had been on his mind. He said what he observed was troubling, and that remaining silent was unacceptable to him, even if it CITY COUNCIL MINUTES January 20, 2026 PAGE 9 OF 1 1 upset others. Councilor Brooks thanked those in attendance and stated that speaking out in moments like this is necessary. Councilor Flack stated that she shared the community's concern and frustration regarding recent events and noted that, as a mother, she found the situation troubling. She expressed confidence in the justice system, stated her support for Police Chief Borrego, and explained that the Council acted within its legal authority by requesting appropriate next steps. Councilor Flack emphasized the importance of relying on facts, data, and the Texas Rangers' independent investigation, and expressed appreciation for the community's engagement and desire to improve. She also offered her condolences to the Mills family and expressed continued support. Councilor Browning agreed with the Council Members who spoke before him and expressed confidence that the current matter would be handled appropriately. He voiced support for Police Chief Borrego and Fire Chief Melton and highlighted positive developments discussed during the meeting, including strong community turnout and engagement. He referenced the Hamilton Tennis Center improvements and noted that approximately $3.5 million had been raised through private fundraising. Councilor Browning also referenced plans to repair The Falls, noting that he frequently receives calls about the feature, and encouraged residents to recognize the positive progress and investments moving forward. Councilor Battaglino stated that he had intended to quote Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., but since those quotes had already been stated earlier, he instead referenced a quote attributed to Abraham Lincoln, saying, "The occasion is piled high with difficulty, and we must rise with the occasion." He stated that responsible leadership means resisting hate and allowing justice to be carried out through a lawful, deliberate process, which he described as the only way justice can ultimately be achieved. Councilor Taylor agreed with his fellow Councilor's concerns regarding the recent incident and noted that they would work together to address any necessary changes or improvements. He also thanked staff for the progress being made on repairs to The Falls. Councilor Taylor encouraged the community to be mindful of individuals experiencing homelessness during the cold weather and suggested donating warm clothing, providing meals, or supporting local nonprofits. He concluded with a reminder about the upcoming parade and expressed hope for good weather. Mayor Short addressed the public regarding recent events, stating that what occurred had shaken community trust and that this mattered deeply to him as Mayor and as a father and grandfather. He referenced remarks he shared at the Martin Luther King Jr. breakfast and quoted Dr. King, stating, "The end is reconciliation. The end is redemption. The end is the creation of the beloved community." Mayor Short emphasized that the goal is not winning arguments or settling scores, but building a community where justice, mercy, truth, and love allow people to flourish together. He stated that he has spoken at CITY COUNCIL MINUTES January 20, 2026 PAGE 10 OF 11 length with the City Manager and Police Chief and affirmed that transparency, accountability, and trust are guiding the City's actions as it works to make Wichita Falls safer and better able to serve all residents. Item 13 — Executive Sessions City Council adjourned into Executive Session at 10:45 a.m. in accordance with Texas Government Code §551.087 and §551.071. Mayor Short reconvened the meeting in open session at 11:26 a.m. and announced that no votes or polls were taken. Mayor Short recessed the meeting at 11:27 a.m. Item 14 — Tour of Memorial Auditorium Mayor Short reconvened the meeting at 11:38 a.m. at Memorial Auditorium, 1300 Seventh Street, for a tour of the facility. Item 15 — Adjourn Mayor Short adjourned the meeting from Memorial Auditorium, 1300 Seventh Street, at 12:10 p.m. PASSED AND APPROVED this 3rd day of February 2026. Tim Short, Mayor ATTEST: Marie Balthrop, TRM , MMC City Clerk CITY COUNCIL MINUTES January 20, 2026 PAGE 11 OF 11