The Levelland city council met this past Monday to address ordinances, public facilities reservations and audit services.
A special meeting was held prior to the regular meeting for an executive session.
At the beginning of the regular meeting, Mayor Breann Buxkemper signed a proclamation in recognition of Juneteenth which is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. It marks the day in 1865 when Union troops arrived in Galveston to announce that the last enslaved people in the state were free. Also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, it is celebrated with community gatherings, parades, barbecues and family reunions. The day is not only a time for celebration but also an opportunity for reflection, education and the recognition of Black history and resilience.
During the public comment section of the meeting, about 70 to 80 Levelland citizens were in attendance, with 18 signing up to speak their concerns about Levelland's first-ever drag show, 'Loud & Proud,' scheduled for later in June at the city park. Several reasons for their opposition included the potential negative influence that these kinds of shows can have on children and as well as the sexual implications.
Council members also held a discussion as a part of the agenda concerning public facilities reservation and Special Events relating to the Code of Ordinances and received input from city attorney Slater Elza. According to the city website the park pavilions may be reserved for birthday parties, family reunions and other functions as approved by the city at no cost to the public. The Civic Center and swimming pool may also be reserved by the public. With the ordinance being very subjective, it was suggested that current regulations need to be reviewed and revised, and special event requirements should be tightened to apply to all events open to the public to protect the community and the city.
In other business, a public hearing was held regarding Ordinance No. 1118 revising the city ordinance to adopt the International Code Council and National Storm Shelter Association’s standard for the design and construction of storm shelters at first reading. The purpose of the ordinance is to establish minimum requirements to safeguard public health, safety and general welfare relative to the installation of storm shelters constructed for protection from tornadoes, hurricanes and other severe windstorms. The standard also applies to extreme rainfall and flooding.
Following the public hearing, the council approved Ordinance No. 1118 to amend the current code and adopt the International Code Council and National Storm Shelter Association’s 2020 ICC 500 Standard.
Council members held a discussion on HB 2844 concerning the state regulatory scheme for mobile food vendors, preempting the city from prohibiting or regulating vendors in a manner conflicting with the act. The proposed Ordinance No. 1117 would revise the city permitting requirements and establish regulations governing mobile food service vendors and vending vehicles, including food trucks in accordance with Texas Health and Safety Code.
In other action, the council authorizes staff to execute an engagement letter with the accounting firm of Bolinger, Segars, Gilbert & Moss to provide annual audit services for fiscal year 2025/ 2026. State law requires cities to audit their finances each year, requiring an independent reviewer to go over cities’ financial records to make sure their monies are accounted for. Cities must also meet a deadline to release a financial statement based on that audit to the public.
The council also held a discussion on the city council calendar for budget work sessions and regular meetings. City Manager James Fisher gave a report on staff and project updates and other items of community interest.
Fisher said the city crews are placing larvicide in selected areas and will spray when the weather cooperates. He said Wireless System mitigation has also begun.
Community events included the Juneteenth Celebration, Movie Night and Touch-A-Truck. The state baseball tournament was set to be held at Oxy ballpark.
Food Truck Day is scheduled for the third Thursday starting in June through September from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Upcoming meetings include the TML Region 3 Quarterly Meeting on June 25, city budget meetings on June 22 and June 29 and the city council meeting on July 6.
City offices will be closed on July 3 in observance of July 4.