Min 04/07/2026 City of Wichita Falls
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/ •L //� City Co ncil MeLing Minutes
I a a 7, 2026
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1. Call to Order
The City Council of the City of Wichita Falls, Texas, met in a regular session on the
above date in the Seminar Room at the MPEC with the following members present.
Present: Mayor Tim Short
Councilor At-Large Austin Cobb
Mayor Pro Tem/Councilor District 4 Mike Battaglino
Councilor District 5 Tom Taylor
Absent: Councilor District 1 Whitney Flack
Councilor District 2 Robert Brooks
Councilor District 3 Jeff Browning
Mayor Short called the meeting to order at 8:31 a.m.
2. Invocation
Pastor Anthony Phillips, New Jerusalem Baptist Church, gave the invocation.
3. Pledge of Allegiance
Mayor Short led the Pledge of Allegiance.
4. Presentations
a) Employee of the Month - Adrian Gonzalez, Health Department
Mayor Short recognized Adrian Gonzalez as Employee of the Month for April 2026 and
shared a brief video. He congratulated Mr. Gonzalez and presented him with a plaque,
letter of appreciation, dinner for two, and a check, and thanked him for his service.
b) Proclamation - National Telecommunicators Week, Wichita Falls Police
Department
Mayor Short read a proclamation proclaiming April 12-18, 2026, as National
Telecommunicators Week in Wichita Falls, Texas.
c) Proclamation - National Safe Digging Month, Atmos Energy Corporation
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April 7, 2026
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Mayor Short read a proclamation proclaiming April as National Safe Digging Month in
Wichita Falls, Texas.
Councilor District 1 Whitney Flack arrived at the meeting at 8:41 a.m.
d) Proclamation - National Public Health Week 2026, Wichita Falls-Wichita County
Public Health District
Mayor Short read a proclamation proclaiming April 6-12, 2026, as National Public
Health Week in Wichita Falls, Texas, and played a video highlighting the Health
Departments services and desire to serve the community.
5. Citizen Comments
Mike Mitchell spoke regarding the Rotary Club's "Wetter Than Hell Hundred" Duck
Race fundraiser benefiting local nonprofits. Approximately 25 to 26 nonprofits are
currently participating. Donations are split, with half directed to the nonprofit selected by
the donor and the remaining half supporting Rotary's grant process. The event will be
held May 30 at Castaway Cove. Ducks may be purchased for $20 each, and additional
information is available at wetterthanhell.com.
Randall Barker spoke regarding the upcoming THOR Run, a local nonprofit event
scheduled for April 18 at Lucy Park. He noted this is the 15th year of the event and
expressed appreciation to community partners who have supported it over the years.
Mr. Barker invited the Council and the public to attend and participate.
John Richoux spoke regarding the property located at 3111 Midwestern Parkway and
the use of funds for its redevelopment. He stated that the City purchased the mall in
2025 with the intent to redevelop and market it for sale, but expressed concern that no
finalized plan has been presented and that the process appears ongoing. Mr. Richoux
noted that the property is reportedly operating at a loss of approximately $44,000 per
month and questioned the absence of a defined timeline and a confirmed end buyer. He
further expressed concern that, while public funds are approved in open session, key
financial decisions appear to be discussed in closed session, limiting the public's ability
to evaluate potential risks. Mr. Richoux urged the City to prioritize transparency so the
public can better understand the financial implications of the project.
Madeline Chappell spoke regarding economic conditions in the Eastside area,
particularly related to flooding and its impact on development. She referenced a 2011
USGS study indicating that flooding in the area is influenced by manmade obstructions
and stated that several recommended improvements have not been fully implemented.
Ms. Chappell expressed concern that much of the Eastside remains within the 100-year
floodplain, limiting access to funding and hindering economic development. Ms.
Chappell discussed potential mitigation efforts, including vegetation management,
infrastructure improvements, and expansion of the Plum Lake Basin to address flooding
and support future water needs. She noted that some recommended projects remain
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April 7, 2026
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incomplete, while others, such as the Rhea Road project, have been completed. Ms.
Chappell requested that the City Council prioritize implementation of the 2011 USGS
recommendations, consider the Plum Lake Basin expansion as part of future economic
development planning, and direct initiation of the FEMA Letter of Map Revision (LOMR)
process. She also submitted supporting documents and formally requested that the
item be considered for placement on a future agenda.
Josie Rose thanked the Fire Department for coming and helping the individuals whose
vehicles were trapped by a fallen tree over the Easter weekend.
Natalie Hill spoke about a traffic stop on September 26, 2025, in which she was cited
for allegedly running a red light at Rhea Road. Ms. Hill stated she believed the light was
yellow when she entered the intersection and disputed the citation. She further stated
that, during her court appearance in January, she believed the issuing officer provided
inaccurate testimony. Ms. Hill also expressed concern regarding the timing of the traffic
signal, stating she believes the yellow light interval does not meet applicable standards,
and noted observing law enforcement presence in the area. She shared her
professional driving background and maintained that she did not run a red light.
Crystal Washington spoke in follow-up to Ms. Rose's comments, expressing
appreciation to those who assisted individuals affected by the fallen tree and thanking
Mr. Bates for coming to Wichita Falls. She also expressed that she is still awaiting
justice for Victoria. Ms. Washington addressed concerns about economic conditions in
the Eastside, including limited eligibility for certain funding opportunities. She
referenced Flood Street as a former economic center and attributed its decline, in part,
to ongoing flooding issues, including conditions related to Plum Lake and a culvert on
FM 177. She stated that, based on her understanding, repairs to the culvert would
require TxDOT involvement and requested that the City pursue coordination to address
the issue. Ms. Washington further expressed concern that development and funding
opportunities have been more concentrated in other areas of the city and requested
increased investment in Eastside to address poverty and infrastructure needs. She
noted that nonprofit organizations are available to partner on these efforts and stated
that funding is available for drainage improvements, emphasizing the need to address
ongoing flooding concerns.
Stephen Garner spoke about the Guns & Hoses program, expressing appreciation for
its impact on youth in the community. He emphasized the importance of supporting
children and noted that the program has provided opportunities benefiting local youth
for more than ten years. Mr. Garner stated that nearly $10,000 was donated last year to
support youth events and thanked the Fire and Police Departments for their continued
dedication and involvement.
Dylan Jimenez spoke as a vendor for the Art Walk. He stated that he joined the local art
community shortly after moving to Wichita Falls and has enjoyed its growth over the
past five years. Mr. Jimenez noted that he became a vendor in 2023 and expressed
appreciation for recent organizational improvements, stating it was one of his best
experiences as a vendor. He described the Art Walk as a quality-of-life event for the
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community and expressed appreciation for Potencia's responsiveness to feedback. Mr.
Jimenez stated he is grateful to be part of the art community and looks forward to its
continued growth.
David Coleman, Chairman of the Hotter'N Hell Hundred, announced that the event was
recognized as the number one road bike event in the country by USA Today Readers'
Choice Awards. He expressed appreciation for the support and noted the recognition as
a significant achievement for the City of Wichita Falls. Mr. Coleman also announced
that Midwestern State University has another national champion, Emma Kasza-James,
for her performance in the gravel race. He stated that a reception will be held at 4:00
p.m. the following day in the Comanche Room at the Clark Student Center.
Jeffery Jenkins, City Manager, stated that the City is actively reviewing drainage issues
in the Eastside area, as well as citywide. He noted that it has been approximately 15
years since these issues were previously evaluated and indicated that the City will
revisit potential improvements to enhance conditions for the community. Mr. Jenkins
also stated that funding opportunities are available for drainage projects and that the
City will explore options to secure such funding.
Consent Agenda
Moved by Councilor Battaglino to approve the Consent Agenda - Items 6-9.
The motion was seconded by Councilor Taylor.
Mike Mitchell asked if the name given on item 9D is the official name of the project or a
temporary one. Mayor Short stated that it is the temporary project name.
Harley Anderson asked about item 9E.
Leo Lane, Chairman of the WFEDC, stated that this item is related to Wichita Clutch.
They will be bringing in another production line and plan to expand the building by
about 10,000 square feet. More employees will be hired to work on the new production
line. Wichita Clutch has been in Wichita Falls since 1992.
The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Mayor Short, Councilor Cobb, Councilor Flack, Councilor Battaglino,
Councilor Taylor
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
6. Approval of Meeting Minutes
a) City Council Meeting March 17, 2026
7. Receive Minutes
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a) 4A WFEDC October 14, 2025
b) Wichita Falls-Wichita County Public Health Board January 9, 2026
c) Wichita Falls-Wichita County Homeless Advisory Committee January 14, 2026
d) Planning and Zoning Commission January 14, 2026
e) 4A WFEDC January 15, 2026
f) Planning & Zoning Commission February 11 , 2026
g) Tax Increment Financing #3 Board February 17, 2026
h) Park Board February 26, 2026
8. Ordinances
a) Ordinance 14-2026 making an appropriation to the Special Revenue Fund in the
amount of $124,416 for the Public Health Preparedness Program from the Texas
Department of State Health Services (DSHS) for Program Fiscal Year 2027 (from
July 1 , 2026, through June 30, 2027); authorizing the City Manager, or his
designee, to execute all documents necessary to accept said funds
b) Ordinance 15-2026 making an appropriation to the Special Revenue Fund in the
amount of $8,000 for grant funding from the Dallas Internet Crimes Against
Children Task Force, which is administered by the City of Dallas Reimbursement
Program
c) Ordinance 16-2026 of the City of Wichita Falls, Texas, amending the Code of
Ordinance to reduce the maximum speed limit in the City View Elementary School
zone #1 and City View Elementary School zone #2 from twenty-five (25) miles per
hour to twenty (20) miles per hour; providing for proper signage; providing a
penalty clause; providing for codification and declaring an emergency
9. Resolutions
a) Resolution 33-2026 making appointments to various Boards and Commissions
b) Resolution 34-2026 authorizing the City Manager to award bid and contract for the
2025 Various Drainage Repairs Project to Freeman Paving, L.L.C. in the amount of
$230,844 for drainage improvements at Expressway Village Park
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c) Resolution 35-2026 awarding bids for one (1) grazing lease at Lake Arrowhead,
two (2) grazing leases at Lake Kickapoo, and two (2) hunting leases at Lake
Kickapoo for five (5) year terms beginning June 1 , 2026 and ending May 31 , 2031
d) Resolution 36-2026 approving the programs and expenditures of the Wichita Falls
Economic Development Corporation (WFEDC, 4A) by authorizing funding up to
$400,000 related to the redevelopment planning of the WFEDC-owned property at
3111 Midwestern Parkway (University Town Center project)
e) Resolution 37-2026 approving the programs and expenditures of the Wichita Falls
Economic Development Corporation (WFEDC, 4A) by authorizing funding up to
$640,000 to WPT Power Corporation to assist in facilitating a planned expansion of
their current facility at 1600 Fisher Rd.
f) Resolution 38-2026 approving the programs and expenditures of the Wichita Falls
Economic Development Corporation (WFEDC, 4A) by authorizing Kingspan Group
plc (UEC-LP) to assume the existing performance agreement between the WFEDC
and MA Acquisition Co, LLC (Magic Aire) and providing that all terms of the
existing contract remain in effect
Regular Agenda
10. Resolutions
a) Resolution renaming the "South Weeks Park" to the "Kelly Crush Memorial Park,"
located at 2006 Southwest Parkway, Wichita Falls, TX
Moved by Councilor Battaglino to approve Resolution 39-2026, renaming the "South
Weeks Park" to the "Kelly Crush Memorial Park," located at 2006 Southwest Parkway,
Wichita Falls, TX.
The motion was seconded by Councilor Cobb.
James McKechnie, Deputy City Manager, spoke regarding the ordinance adopted by
the Council last year establishing a process and criteria for renaming City streets,
parks, and other facilities.
Cody Melton, Fire Chief, expressed appreciation to those in attendance in support of
the proposed renaming. He stated that the renaming is intended to honor former
firefighter Kelly Crush, who was diagnosed with ALS and dedicated his career to
serving the community. Chief Melton highlighted Mr. Crush's character, commitment,
and continued involvement with the department following his medical retirement. Chief
Melton also noted Mr. Crush's broader impact through his work with the Muscular
Dystrophy Association and his role as an advocate and an inspiration to others facing
similar challenges. He referenced a scholarship established in 2013 at Mr. Crush's
request to support children of firefighters, which has since been awarded more than 85
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times, totaling over $60,000. Chief Melton stated that the proposed renaming would
honor Mr. Crush's service, resilience, and lasting contributions to the community and
the fire department.
Chief Melton read an email from retired Captain Tony Miser in support of the proposed
park renaming. In the email, Captain Miser expressed that the renaming would be a
meaningful and appropriate tribute. He described Kelly Crush as a dedicated firefighter
who cared deeply for others, was committed to his family and friends, and took great
pride in serving with the Wichita Falls Fire Department. Captain Miser also noted that a
park is a fitting venue to honor Mr. Crush, reflecting his love for sports, the outdoors,
and community, and providing a space for reflection, gathering, and recreation.
Michael Glenn, Fort Worth, 11th District Vice President of the International Association
of Fire Fighters, spoke in support of the proposed park renaming and shared remarks
as a colleague and friend of Kelly Crush. Mr. Glenn stated that he met Mr. Crush
several years ago and recognized him as an inspiration for his strength and resilience
following his diagnosis. Mr. Glenn noted Mr. Crush's impact within the fire service,
including his involvement with the Muscular Dystrophy Association and his role in
raising awareness through efforts such as the "Fill the Boot" campaign. He stated that
Mr. Crush became a well-known figure across the IAFF, bringing recognition to Wichita
Falls and serving as a positive representative of the profession. Mr. Glenn expressed
that naming a park in Mr. Crush's honor would be a meaningful tribute and thanked the
Council for the opportunity to speak and for considering recognition of Mr. Crush's
contributions and legacy.
Becky Prine, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, representing the Muscular Dystrophy
Association, spoke in support of the proposed park renaming and shared her
professional experience working with firefighters through the MDA "Fill the Boot"
campaign. She noted her long-standing career with MDA and her personal connection
to Kelly Crush. Ms. Prine highlighted Mr. Crush's contributions to MDA and his efforts to
raise awareness and support for research following his diagnosis. She stated that he
continued to advocate for the organization, engaging with firefighters across the country
and encouraging community participation in fundraising efforts. Ms. Prine shared that
Mr. Crush had a lasting impact on those who knew him and continues to be influential in
advancing MDA's mission. She expressed appreciation for the opportunity to speak and
urged the Council to approve the renaming in honor of Mr. Crush's legacy.
Bobby Whiteley spoke in support of the resolution to rename the park in honor of Kelly
Crush. Mr. Whiteley stated that he worked with Mr. Crush early in his career and knew
him for many years. He shared that Mr. Crush played a role in developing a challenge
coin to support a scholarship fund for children of firefighters, emphasizing that the
scholarship was intended to assist students pursuing various educational paths. Mr.
Whiteley noted that the challenge coin reflected values of strength and brotherhood,
which he stated were representative of Mr. Crush. He also shared an example of
fundraising efforts associated with the coin that benefited firefighters and their families.
Mr. Whiteley described Mr. Crush as a dedicated firefighter and advocate who made a
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lasting impact within the fire service and the community. He expressed support for the
renaming as a meaningful tribute to honor Mr. Crush's legacy.
Stephen Santellana spoke in support of the proposed renaming of South Weeks Park,
stating that the action would promote positivity within the community. He expressed that
honoring individuals through such recognition does not require wealth or status, but
rather meaningful contributions to the community. Mr. Santellana commended the Fire
Department and the International Association of Fire Fighters for their service and
dedication, noting their role in protecting lives and property. He expressed full support
for the resolution and encouraged the Council to approve the renaming.
Al Vitolo, 5408 Blazing Star, President of the Wichita Falls Professional Firefighters
Association Local 432, spoke in support of the proposed name change. He stated that
the Association had previously discussed the renaming process and formally requested
that the park be renamed in honor of Kelly Crush. Mr. Vitolo noted that the request was
made with consideration of the community's history and was not intended to diminish
the Weeks name, but to recognize Mr. Crush's service and legacy. He highlighted Mr.
Crush's assignment at Station 8, located adjacent to South Weeks Park, and his
dedication to the community, including his advocacy efforts on behalf of MDA, the IAFF,
and the City of Wichita Falls.
Mr. Vitolo stated that Mr. Crush's impact continues to be recognized nationally and
expressed that the renaming would be a fitting tribute to his contributions and service.
The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Mayor Short, Councilor Cobb, Councilor Flack, Councilor Battaglino,
Councilor Taylor
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilor At-Large Austin Cobb left the meeting at 9:46 a.m.
b) Resolution Approving a Contract with Texas First LLC for the services of Mitch
Bates as Interim Police Chief for the City of Wichita Falls at a rate of $117.40 per
hour
Moved by Councilor Battaglino to approve Resolution 40-2026 approving a Contract
with Texas First LLC for the services of Mitch Bates as Interim Police Chief for the City
of Wichita Falls at a rate of $117.40 per hour.
The motion was seconded by Councilor Taylor.
Jeff Jenkins, City Manager, introduced Mitch Bates and provided an overview of his
background. He expressed support for appointing Mr. Bates as Interim Chief of Police,
noting a start date of April 7 and an anticipated tenure of approximately four to seven
months, or until a permanent chief is appointed.
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Mr. Bates introduced himself and stated he is happy to be here and looks forward to
working with the community and police department.
Councilor Battaglino asked how citizens or organizations could contact or meet with the
Interim Chief of Police. Mr. Bates provided his email address, mitch.bates@wfpd.net,
for contact.
Crystal Washington asked whether Mr. Bates would be considered for the permanent
Chief of Police position and inquired about the process for selecting the next chief.
Mayor Short stated that Mr. Bates is serving only as Interim Chief. Mr. Jenkins added
that the City is exploring the use of a search firm to recruit a permanent Chief of Police,
with plans to post the position by the first week of May, narrow the candidate pool in
June, conduct interviews in July or August, and finalize the selection in August.
The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Mayor Short, Councilor Flack, Councilor Battaglino, Councilor Taylor
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
c) Resolution authorizing a performance agreement and appropriating Tax Increment
Financing (TIF) Reinvestment Zone #3 funds to a New Day Empowerment Center
(dba House of Empowerment) at 511 Mississippi Ave., for a three (3) year
forgivable loan up to $200,000 to support the expansion of community outreach
services with facility improvements upgrading to a commercial kitchen and food
preparation area
Moved by Councilor Battaglino to approve Resolution 41-2026 authorizing a
performance agreement and appropriating Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Reinvestment
Zone #3 funds to a New Day Empowerment Center (dba House of Empowerment) at
511 Mississippi Ave., for a three (3) year forgivable loan up to $200,000 to support the
expansion of community outreach services with facility improvements upgrading to a
commercial kitchen and food preparation area.
The motion was seconded by Councilor Taylor.
Fabian Medellin, Director of Development Services, provided background on the item
and outlined the House of Empowerment's community outreach efforts. He stated that
the organization is seeking assistance through Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds to
support expansion of its operations and services. Mr. Medellin noted that TIF No. 3 has
agreed to allocate $200,000 to the project, contingent upon two conditions: the
organization must raise an initial $75,000 within 12 months, and it must enter into a
performance agreement governing the disbursement of funds.
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Pastor John McGee, representing the House of Empowerment, stated that the
organization has made progress since its previous meeting with the Council.
Mayor Short asked how fundraising was going.
Pastor McGee stated that the organization is preparing grant applications to support its
efforts. He also expressed appreciation for his wife's assistance in helping provide more
than 100 meals per day.
Councilor Taylor asked how the organization prepares approximately 100 meals per
day using its current kitchen.
Pastor McGee stated that most meals are prepared off-site and then reheated at the
facility's kitchen. He noted that meals are served at the House of Empowerment and
that the organization is seeking to expand to allow for increased on-site meal
preparation.
Madeline Chappell asked for clarification on how TIF funding operates and whether
recipients are required to expend funds upfront before receiving reimbursement.
Kinley Hegglund, City Attorney, stated that is not a legal requirement.
Ms. Chappell asked how that determination is made if that is not a requirement.
Mr. Hegglund explained that TIF funding operates similarly to 4A and 4B funding, with
the board determining how funds are distributed. He noted that, in most cases, projects
receive approximately 10% funding from the City. In this instance, the TIF Board
authorized a higher contribution but requires a portion of the fundraising to be
completed in advance.
Ms. Chappell questioned how many other organizations have been required to provide
upfront funding and why this requirement is being applied in this case. She also asked
how requiring applicants to pay in advance benefits the community, particularly when
organizations are seeking financial assistance.
Councilor Taylor, a member of the TIF No. 3 Board, explained that each request is
evaluated on a case-by-case basis, including consideration of the applicant's ability to
repay if repayment is required. He emphasized the importance of prudent use of City
funds and responsible allocation. Councilor Taylor noted that, in this instance, the
House of Empowerment had previously been provided funding to engage an engineer
and develop an expansion plan to confirm the project's viability. He stated that, to date,
two projects have been approved by TIF No. 3, including one in which the applicant
initially funded the work and later sought reimbursement. He added that funding
structures are tailored to each applicant's specific needs and circumstances.
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Ms. Chappell stated that, in her view, the structure of a three-year forgivable loan
suggests an assumption that applicants may not be able to repay the funds, which she
believes contributes to requiring upfront contributions. She expressed concern that
similar requirements have been applied inconsistently to other recent recipients of TIF
No. 3 funding. Ms. Chappell referenced a prior project and questioned whether funds
were paid directly to contractors rather than the applicant. She further stated her
concern that funding requirements, including the 10% contribution, are not applied
uniformly.
Councilor Taylor deferred to Mr. Medellin for how the execution of the funding is
handled.
Ms. Chappell asked if the other TIF zones are required to put down that much money.
Mr. Jenkins responded that it is standard for grants and loan programs to require some
form of matching contribution and that a 10% match is not uncommon, including for
grants the City applies for. He noted that fully funded, 100% forgivable programs are
rare, as these programs are typically structured to encourage active participation and
investment by the applicant.
Mr. Medellin explained that each TIF zone operates independently, with funding
decisions based on the zone's goals, objectives, and board direction. He noted that this
is the second project funded through TIF No. 3. The first project, related to fuel pumps
at the Zoom Zoom gas station, was fully funded by the TIF Board and did not require an
upfront contribution. Mr. Medellin stated that each project is evaluated individually,
taking into account the specific details and financial capacity of the applicant. For the
House of Empowerment project, he explained that the Board determined an upfront
contribution would both support the organization's commitment to the project and help
safeguard TIF No. 3 funds.
Mr. Hegglund asked Paul Menzies, Assistant City Manager, to explain how the funding
process for distributing funds to WinCo from TIF 2 worked.
Mr. Menzies clarified that the WinCo project was funded through TIF No. 2 in the
Lawrence Road area and was structured as a public-private partnership. He stated that
TIF No. 2 contributed approximately $1 ,000,000 toward a $6,000,000 extension project,
with WinCo providing additional investment primarily through bidding and construction.
Mr. Menzies noted that the project was not fully funded by the City and emphasized
that, in most cases, funding programs such as 4A, 4B, and TIF are structured to require
some level of investment from the applicant.
Ms. Chappell reiterated concerns regarding funding requirements, stating that requiring
applicants to make an upfront investment may create barriers for those without access
to financial resources. She noted that floodplain conditions have impacted eligibility for
certain funding opportunities and asked whether the process could be modified to better
accommodate applicants with limited means.
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Councilor Flack responded, clarifying that the request related to Ms. Chappell's project
involved engaging an engineer to evaluate feasibility, and that such steps could support
eligibility for future grant funding.
Ms. Chappell responded that addressing underlying drainage issues and removing
Eastside from the floodplain would more effectively expand access to funding
opportunities. She referenced a prior USGS study and expressed concern that
recommended improvements had not been fully implemented. Ms. Chappell questioned
whether similar floodplain conditions apply to other funded projects and expressed
concern regarding potential disparities in funding allocation. She acknowledged the
City's ongoing review of drainage issues but urged more timely action and encouraged
Council to revisit the referenced study.
The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Mayor Short, Councilor Flack, Councilor Battaglino, Councilor Taylor
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
d) Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a one-year lease with the
Wichita Falls Railroad Museum, a Texas nonprofit corporation, for the use of City-
owned property located at 501 8th Street with an option to renew for two (2)
additional 1 year periods
Moved by Councilor Battaglino to approve Resolution 42-2026 authorizing the City
Manager to execute a one-year lease with the Wichita Falls Railroad Museum, a Texas
nonprofit corporation, for the use of City-owned property located at 501 8th Street with
an option to renew for two (2) additional 1 year periods.
The motion was seconded by Councilor Taylor.
Pat Hoffman, Property Administrator, introduced the item and stated that staff
recommends approval of a lease agreement with the Wichita Falls Railroad Museum.
She noted that the agreement will support the display of the history, contributions, and
impact of the railway industry in Wichita Falls, and that the museum board will
showcase and preserve City-owned artifacts at its own expense.
Jan Seville expressed appreciation to the Council for assisting in removing obstacles
that had delayed the project. She stated that the museum anticipates opening to the
public soon, which will support fundraising efforts for ongoing operations.
Councilor Battaglino asked what the soft open date will be.
Ms. Seville said the tentative date for the soft open is May 23rd.
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April 7, 2026
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The motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Mayor Short, Councilor Flack, Councilor Battaglino, Councilor Taylor
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
11. Other Council Matters
a) Announcements concerning items of community interest from members of the City
Council. No action will be taken or discussed.
Councilor Taylor thanked Fabian and his staff for their work on TIF 3. He is thankful that
they are finally moving forward with allocating funds.
Councilor Battaglino expressed appreciation to those who attended in support of honoring Kelly
Crush. He announced upcoming community events, including the Disabled American Veterans
Chapter 41 Golf Tournament, scheduled for Friday at River Creek, and the THOR event on April
18, noting that this will be its 15th year. Councilor Battaglino thanked the Wichita Falls
Police Department and Fire Department for their participation in the Eastside Project
Network Committee meeting. He also shared his experience participating in a ride-
along with a police officer, noting the professionalism and compassion demonstrated
during various calls. Councilor Battaglino provided an update regarding a recent
incident at Sheppard Air Force Base, stating the pilot involved in a gear-up landing is
safe. He asked the public to keep those involved, as well as individuals supporting
Operation Epic Fury overseas, in their thoughts and prayers.
Mayor Short recognized Emma Kasza-James of Midwestern State University as the national
gravel champion and congratulated Nicole Kirk, owner of Dear Heart, on being named the 2026
Small Business Person of the Year, noting her business expansion on Southwest Parkway. He
expressed pride in the renaming of South Weeks Park to Kelly Crush Memorial Park. Mayor
Short also referenced the Unity in the Community event held at the MLK Center and
thanked those involved for bringing the community together. He noted his participation
in assisting with the removal of a fallen tree that had blocked access for residents and
expressed appreciation to the Fire Department for their response and assistance.
12. Executive Sessions
City Council adjourned into Executive Session at 10:21 a.m. in accordance with Texas
Government Code §551 .071 and §551 .087.
Mayor Short reconvened the meeting at 11 :25 a.m. in open session and announced
that no votes or polls were taken.
13. Memorial Auditorium Tour, 1300 7th Street
Mayor Short recessed the meeting briefly at 11 :25 a.m. to relocate to Memorial
Auditorium for the scheduled tour.
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April 7, 2026
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Mayor Short called the meeting back to order at Memorial Auditorium for the tour at
11 :36 a.m.
14. Adjourn from the 1st floor of Memorial Auditorium, 1300 7th Street
Mayor Short adjourned the meeting at 12:14 p.m.
PASSED AND APPROVED this 21st day of April, 2026.
Tim Short, Mayor
ATTEST:
Marie Balthrop, TRMC, WIC
City Clerk
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