Development News for El Campo, Texas

City Approves Fencing Contract Change Order, Secures 90% Grant Reimbursement

The council approved Resolution R2026-22, authorizing change order number one to the contract with J4 Fencing. Initially requesting $153,000, J4 Fencing increased their request to $153,602 due to market adjustments and necessary equipment changes to meet project specifications. This additional cost is still eligible for 90% reimbursement under the existing grant, meaning the city will cover 10% ($15,360.20). The total project cost remains below the initial grant award, negating the need for a FEMA price increase request.

Advocate Seeks El Campo's Adoption of Safe Haven Baby Boxes

Jane Smith addressed the council regarding Safe Haven Baby Boxes, seeking to understand the barriers to implementing the program in El Campo and expressing her desire to prioritize her hometown for this initiative. She highlighted that the program is free and managed by a 501(c)(3) in Indiana, emphasizing the dedication of their staff to assist mothers and babies. Smith pointed out the lack of a baby box in Houston and the potential to offer this option to young girls, suggesting collaboration with the local hospital. She requested a private meeting to discuss the matter further, expressing frustration with the lack of progress.

Local Business Raises Concerns Over Waste Collection Costs, Council Tables TDS Contract Renewal

Ann Ramos, EHS Director at Leo Cabinets, presented concerns regarding the city's waste collection contract with Texas Disposal Systems (TDS). She detailed significant cost discrepancies between services in El Campo and East Bernard, citing higher fees for waste hauling, open top dumpsters, and rental of dust receiver boxes in El Campo. Ramos highlighted the operational inefficiencies and costs incurred by Leo Cabinets due to leaking dust collection boxes and the need for extensive manual dust management, costing approximately $4,000 monthly for Smash My Trash services. She compared TDS costs in El Campo ($237,000 over 10 months) to potential GFL costs ($142,000), suggesting significant savings were possible with alternative providers. The council decided to table the contract renewal discussion for the next meeting to allow for further review by the entire council.

City Authorizes Easement Acquisition for Trespasses Creek Flood Mitigation Project

The council approved Resolution R2026-28, declaring a public necessity for acquiring drainage easements and related property interests along Trespasses Creek for channel improvements, drainage enhancements, and flood mitigation. This is for the Trespasses Phase 2 project, a nearly $15 million grant with a 1% match. The resolution authorizes the city manager to negotiate acquisitions, including through eminent domain if necessary. This step is particularly crucial for approximately 30-32 parcels where locating heirs of deceased owners or resolving ownership issues has proven difficult, delaying progress on the project.