Min 09/01/2026 J_1 City of Wichita Falls
C.4576 City Council Meeting Minutes
�`( TEXAS X A S September 1, 2026
Nue5,kie.4a/den Opportunities:
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
Councilor District 1 Whitney Flack
Mayor Pro Tem/Councilor District 4 Mike Battaglino
Councilor District 5 Tom Taylor
Absent: Councilor District 2 Robert Brooks
Councilor District 3 Jeff Browning
Mayor Short called the meeting to order at 8:30 a.m.
a) Pastor Chris Swinford, Faith Village Church of Christ, gave the invocation.
3. Pledge of Allegiance
Mayor Short led the Pledge of Allegiance.
4. Presentations
Mayor Short welcomed James McKechnie as City Manager and congratulated him on
his appointment. He expressed the City Council's confidence in his professionalism,
character, and commitment to Wichita Falls and said the Council looks forward to
working with him in service to the community.
Marie Balthrop, City Clerk, administered the Oath of Office to James McKechnie, City
Manager.
a) Employee of the Month - Firefighter Alberto "A.J." Alvarez, Fire Department
Mayor Short recognized A.J. Alvarez as Employee of the Month for September
2026 and shared a brief video. He congratulated Mr. Alvarez and presented him
with a plaque, letter of appreciation, dinner for two, and a check, and thanked him
for his service.
5. Citizen Comments
Dr. Gene Newton thanked the City Council for its service and expressed concern about
public trust in government and the City's use of Flock license plate reader cameras. He
stated that he believes the cameras infringe upon Fourth Amendment protections and
City Council Minutes
September 1, 2026
Page 1 of 9
raised concerns about privacy and government surveillance. He urged the City to
reconsider or remove the cameras, suggested requiring court authorization for access
to camera data, and encouraged residents to continue monitoring the issue and voicing
their concerns.
Ann Arnold thanked the City Council for its continued support of the arts and highlighted
several recent and upcoming projects, including a new photography installation at the
Health Department, arts-related activities associated with Hotter'N Hell, and an airport
mural commemorating 60 years of the German Air Force presence in Wichita Falls. She
also invited the public to attend the upcoming Art Walk celebrating the arts partnership
with MSU Texas and thanked the City for its ongoing support and collaboration.
David Coleman, Chair of Hotter'N Hell, thanked the City Council, City staff, and the
community for their support of the successful event. He recognized the efforts of
multiple City departments and officials and praised the newly opened section of the
Circle Trail. Mr. Coleman expressed appreciation for the community's hospitality and
pride in Wichita Falls.
Anthony Carlisle raised concerns about property conditions near the bus terminal,
pedestrian and ADA accessibility near Brook and Fifth Streets, and the need to keep
Brook Street clear and accessible during winter weather due to its proximity to the
hospital.
Staff noted that plans are in place to construct a sidewalk along Brook and Seymour
Highway.
Consent Agenda - Items 6-9
Moved by Councilor Battaglino to approve the Consent Agenda.
The motion was seconded by Councilor Taylor and, with no comments or questions
from the public, 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, August 11 , 2026
b) City Council, August 18, 2026
7. Receive Minutes
a) Lake Wichita Revitalization Committee, July 14, 2026
8. Ordinances
City Council Minutes
September 1, 2026
Page 2 of 9
a) Ordinance 41-2026 amending the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 budget to authorize an
emergency purchase of a replacement refuse collection unit in the amount of
$392,796.00.
9. Resolutions
a) Resolution 91-2026 authorizing the emergency purchase of one 2027 Mack TE64
w/ Labrie/Wittke Commercial Front-Loading Refuse Body from Bruckner Truck
Sales, Inc., in the amount of $392,796.00.
b) Resolution 92-2026 authorizing the purchase of one 2026 Ford F-550 w/ Stellar
Container Carrier body from Rush Truck Centers of Texas, L.P., in the amount of
$121 ,621.00.
c) Resolution 93-2026 authorizing the City Manager to approve Change Order No. 4
for the Quail Creek Drainage Improvements Project, contracted to Scales Concrete
Construction Co., Inc., a deduct in the amount of ($203,286.95).
d) Resolution 94-2026 reducing the rental fee of the Mobile Stage for the Founders
Lions Club for the T-O Fair on September 16-19, 2026.
e) Resolution 95-2026 repealing Resolution No. 81-2026 and authorizing the City
Manager to award bid and contract for the 2026 Asphalt Rehabilitation Project to
Freeman Paving, L.L.C. in the amount of $3,018,554.50.
f) Resolution 96-2026 authorizing the use of $800,000.00 Housing Choice Voucher
Administrative Fee Reserves to address the calendar year 2026 Housing
Assistance Payment funding shortfall.
g) Resolution 97-2026 authorizing the submittal of two grant applications to Nortex
Regional Planning Commission for the 2027 Regional Solid Waste Grants
Program, and acceptance if awarded.
h) Resolution 98-2026 authorizing the City Manager to award bid and contract for the
demolition and asbestos abatement of the Performance Hall at Memorial
Auditorium at 1300 7th Street to AOC Environmental, Inc. in the amount of
$569,379.00.
Regular Agenda
10. Public Hearings & Ordinances
a) Public Hearing and take action on Ordinance 42-2026 finding certain buildings
and/or structures to be dangerous; requiring property owners to demolish said
buildings and/or structures within thirty (30) days of the date of this ordinance, and
declaring an emergency and immediate effective date.
Mayor Short opened the public hearing at 8:56 a.m.
Alex Borrego discussed the background and timeline and provided an overview of
each structure.
City Council Minutes
September 1, 2026
Page 3 of 9
1310 N. 2nd, main and accessory structures - Date of notice September 26, 2025,
water disconnected August 5, 2020, and no taxes are owed.
1901 6th Street, main and accessory structures - Date of notice February 19,
2026, date of fire January 10, 2026, water disconnected February 10, 2023, and
$2,044.71 in taxes are owed.
2412 8th Street, main and accessory structures - Date of notice March 16, 2026,
water disconnected January 15, 2025, and $1,505.16 in taxes are owed.
1404 Burnett, main and accessory structures - Date of notice March 16, 2026,
date of fire May 17, 2025, water disconnected March 4, 2020, and no taxes are
owed.
838 Elwood, main and accessory structures - Date of notice March 16, 2026,
water disconnected May 29, 2014, and no taxes are owed.
1621 Harding, main structure - Date of notice March 16, 2026, water disconnected
October 5, 2011, and no taxes are owed.
517 Indiana, commercial - Date of notice: May 27, 2026; water disconnected: June
29, 2007; $2,737.24 in taxes owed; account currently in a lawsuit.
Lonnie Culley, owner, explained that a portion of the building collapsed during an
April 1st storm and that he cleaned debris from the Backdoor Theater parking lot
shortly afterward. He stated that demolition has been delayed while coordinating
with a contractor and removing equipment from the property. Staff confirmed they
could work with the contractor to accommodate the removal of the remaining
equipment.
1807 Kemp Blvd., main structure - Date of notice November 13, 2025, date of fire
August 10, 2023, water disconnected August 22, 2023, $4,946.77 in taxes are
owed; account currently in a lawsuit.
1203 Smith Street, main structure - Date of notice March 16, 2026, water
disconnected September 17, 2024, and $707.76 in taxes are owed.
404 Virginia Ave., main structure - Mr. Borrego reported that the property owner
has an active remodel permit and has recently begun work on the property. Based
on the improvements underway, he recommended removing the property from
consideration.
309 Walnut, main structure - Date of notice March 16, 2026, date of fire February
6, 2026, water disconnected February 4, 2011, and no taxes are owed.
711 Welch, main structure - Date of notice March 17, 2026, water account is
active, and no taxes are owed.
City Council Minutes
September 1, 2026
Page 4 of 9
4506 Wyoming. main structure — Date of notice March 16, 2026, water
disconnected, and no taxes are owed. The owner has pulled the demolition permit,
but staff recommends leaving it on the list.
Council and staff discussed the demolition timeline and process, including the 30-
day period for property owners to demolish structures, possible extensions, required
environmental and historical reviews, and assessment of demolition costs as liens
when performed by the City. Staff clarified that 404 Virginia would be removed from
consideration due to recent improvements. Council also commended staff and the
Code Enforcement team for their work on the properties.
David Cook, Chair-Elect of Backdoor Theater, expressed concern regarding
damage caused to the theater's recently renovated parking lot by the collapse of the
neighboring structure at 517 Indiana. He stated that approximately nine parking
spaces have been affected and estimated the damage at approximately $20,000.
Mr. Cook asked the City to consider the theater's damages in any future action
involving the property. Staff clarified that any City lien would be limited to the City's
demolition costs and that damages to Backdoor Theater would be a civil matter
between the property owners.
Mayor Short closed the public hearing at 9:11 a.m.
Moved by Councilor Battaglino to approve Ordinance 42-2026 finding certain
buildings and/or structures to be dangerous; requiring property owners to demolish
said buildings and/or structures within thirty (30) days of the date of this ordinance,
declaring an emergency and immediate effective date, and removing 404 Virginia
Avenue from the list.
The motion was seconded by Councilor Cobb and carried by the following vote:
AYES: Mayor Short, Councilor Cobb, Councilor Flack, Councilor Battaglino,
Councilor Taylor
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
b) Conduct a Public Hearing and Consider Ordinance 43-2026 rezoning +/- 7.46
acres of land from Single Family -2 (SF-2) to Planned Unit Development — Mixed
Use (PUD-MU) located at 2206 Lucas Avenue (Lot 1 , Block 1 , Lamar Elementary
School Addition out of Block 15, Cherokee County School Lands), and amend the
Land Use Plan from Institutional to High Density Residential to allow senior living
and a neighborhood communal meeting space.
Mayor Short opened the public hearing at 9:12 a.m.
Fabian Medellin, Director of Development Services, presented a request to rezone
City Council Minutes
September 1, 2026
Page 5 of 9
the former Lamar Elementary School from SF-2 to a PUD-MU to allow 49 affordable
senior housing units and retain the existing gymnasium as a neighborhood
communal meeting space. He explained that the approximately 7.5-acre site is
primarily surrounded by residential uses, with commercial and industrial zoning
located closer to the US 287/Windthorst Road area. Mr. Medellin stated that the
project would preserve the historic character and architecture of the existing school
building and would include an additional approximately 8,000-square-foot structure.
He noted that neighborhood notices were mailed and signs posted, with two
responses received in favor and no opposition noted. The Planning and Zoning
Commission unanimously recommended approval, and staff also recommended
approval of the zoning change and related land-use amendment.
April Angstrom, applicant, stated that planning for the project began in 2024 and
that funding was awarded by the Texas Department of Housing and Community
Affairs in July. She said construction is expected to begin by the end of the year and
take approximately 12 to 14 months. Ms. Angstrom also noted that the organization
has experience with numerous similar historic redevelopment projects.
Alicia Duran asked whether the letter was sent out in Spanish, and staff noted that it
was not. Staff stated that translation services are available to assist property
owners in understanding the notice and its implications.
Mayor Short closed the public hearing at 9:19 a.m.
Moved by Councilor Battaglino to approve Ordinance 43-2026 rezoning +/- 7.46
acres of land from Single Family -2 (SF-2) to Planned Unit Development — Mixed
Use (PUD-MU) located at 2206 Lucas Avenue (Lot 1 , Block 1 , Lamar Elementary
School Addition out of Block 15, Cherokee County School Lands), and amend the
Land Use Plan from Institutional to High Density Residential to allow senior living
and a neighborhood communal meeting space.
The motion was seconded by Councilor Taylor and carried by the following vote:
AYES: Mayor Short, Councilor Cobb, Councilor Flack, Councilor Battaglino,
Councilor Taylor
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
11. Public Hearings & Resolutions
a) Public Hearing on the Fiscal Year 2027 Proposed Budget and take action on a
Resolution setting the date for adoption of the FY 2027 Budget.
Mayor Short opened the public hearing at 9:20 a.m.
Stephen Calvert, CFO/Director of Finance, summarized the proposed budget,
noting that it lowers the tax rate, reduces residential utility bills through lower water
rates, continues improvements to employee compensation, and remains structurally
City Council Minutes
September 1, 2026
Page 6 of 9
balanced. He stated that the action today would set the date to vote on the budget
and tax rate for the September 15, 2026, meeting and recommended approval.
There were no comments from the public.
Mayor Short closed the public hearing at 9:21 a.m.
Moved by Councilor Battaglino to approve Resolution 99-2026 setting the date for
adoption of the FY 2027 Budget.
The motion was seconded by Councilor Cobb and, with no comments or questions
from the public, carried by the following vote:
AYES: Mayor Short, Councilor Cobb, Councilor Flack, Councilor Battaglino,
Councilor Taylor
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
b) Resolution 100-2026 awarding M & F Litteken CO. the Regional Airport Entry
Vestibule Door Replacement project for the amount of $300,900.00.
Moved by Councilor Battaglino to approve Resolution 100-2026 awarding M & F
Litteken CO. the Regional Airport Entry Vestibule Door Replacement project for the
amount of $300,900.00.
The motion was seconded by Councilor Taylor and, with no comments or questions
from the public, carried by the following vote:
AYES: Mayor Short, Councilor Cobb, Councilor Flack, Councilor Battaglino,
Councilor Taylor
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
c) Resolution 101-2026 authorizing the City Manager to apply for and accept a
Federal Transportation Administration Section 5339 Buses and Bus Facilities
Infrastructure Investment Program Grant in an estimated amount up to
$6,000,000.00.
Moved by Councilor Battaglino to approve Resolution 101-2026 authorizing the City
Manager to apply for and accept a Federal Transportation Administration Section
5339 Buses and Bus Facilities Infrastructure Investment Program Grant in an
estimated amount up to $6,000,000.00.
The motion was seconded by Councilor Cobb and, with no comments or questions
from the public, carried by the following vote:
City Council Minutes
September 1, 2026
Page 7 of 9
AYES: Mayor Short, Councilor Cobb, Councilor Flack, Councilor Battaglino,
Councilor Taylor
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
12. Other Council Matters
a) Announcements concerning items of community interest from members of the City
Council. No action will be taken or discussed.
Councilor Cobb congratulated David Coleman on a successful first year as
Chairman of Hotter'N Hell and thanked him for representing the community well. He
expressed concern for those affected by the Ross Fire and recognized Wichita Falls
firefighters who assisted with the response. Councilor Cobb also welcomed James
McKechnie as City Manager and said he looked forward to working with him and to
seeing his vision for the City. He concluded with a brief comment about the opening
of dove season.
Councilor Flack expressed appreciation for the City's efforts to address neglected
and unsafe properties and thanked Code Enforcement staff for their work and for
allowing property owners opportunities to correct issues before City action is taken.
She also praised Jenny Stevens for planning ahead and finding cost-effective ways
to improve the City and serve residents. Councilor Flack thanked David Coleman
for a successful Hotter'N Hell weekend and noted the positive feedback received
from residents and visitors about the event and the community.
Councilor Taylor praised staff efforts to address property cleanup and sidewalk
gaps throughout the City, noting that recent budgets have specifically included
funding to improve sidewalk connectivity and pedestrian safety. He also commented
on the anticipated replacement of a damaged sanitation truck and thanked staff for
closely monitoring fleet-related needs and delays. Councilor Taylor recognized
wastewater staff, particularly Matthew, for their professionalism and public outreach
regarding upcoming smoke testing in residential neighborhoods.
Councilor Battaglino thanked organizers and volunteers for a successful Hotter'N
Hell weekend and noted upcoming community events, including Art Walk and Taco
Fest. He also recognized the 25th anniversary of September 11 and highlighted
related local activities, including MSU Texas' Tower Stories. Battaglino thanked Fire
Department staff for providing training gear he plans to wear while climbing 110
flights of stairs in honor of the 343 firefighters who died on September 11 , 2001. He
also mentioned the upcoming Bingo, Bags and Badges fundraiser for Patsy's
House.
Mayor Short commented on a successful Hotter'N Hell weekend and noted that he
completed the 62-mile ride. He also recognized the five Wichita Falls firefighters
City Council Minutes
September 1, 2026
Page 8 of 9
assisting with the Ross Fire and expressed appreciation for their service, wishing
them a safe return home.
13. Executive Sessions
City Council adjourned into Executive Session at 9:35 a.m. in accordance with Texas
Government Code §551.087 and §551 .071.
a) Executive Session in accordance with Texas Government Code § 551 .087, to
discuss or deliberate regarding commercial or financial information that the
governmental body has received from a business prospect that the governmental
body seeks to have locate, stay, or expand in or near the territory of the
governmental body and with which the governmental body is conducting economic
development negotiations and/or to deliberate the offer of a financial or other
incentive to a business prospect.(including, but not limited to, Waggoner Ranch
negotiations, Miniature Wonders, and an Economic Development Update).
b) Executive Session in accordance with Texas Government Code §551.071 ,
consultation with attorney on matters involving pending or contemplated litigation
or other matters in which the duty of the attorney to the governmental body under
the Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct of the State Bar of Texas
clearly conflicts with the Texas Open Meetings Act (including, but not limited to,
TxDOT update).
Mayor Short reconvened the meeting in open session at 10:57 a.m. and
announced that no votes or polls were taken, and that the proceedings would
remain confidential as provided by law.
14. Adjourn
Mayor Short adjourned the meeting at 10:58 a.m.
PASSED AND APPROVED this 15th day of September 2026.
Short, Mayor
ATTEST:
Marie Balthrop, TRNk, MMC
City Clerk
City Council Minutes
September 1, 2026
Page 9 of 9