Development News for Groves, Texas

City Adopts New State Regulations for Food Truck Licensing

The City Council deliberated and approved Ordinance 2026-10, which amends city code sections related to food trucks to align with the Texas Health and Safety Code. While zoning restrictions, fire inspections, and site inspection requirements remain unchanged, the state will now issue licenses, and the city will charge a $100 fee for registration. The city's role shifts from issuing permits to a registration process. Discussions covered the continued requirement for land owner applications and specific use (C2, C3) zoning. The building official will handle site inspections and issue certificates, coordinating with fire inspections. Information for food truck owners will be updated and available on the city's website.

Groves Fall Festival Beer Garden Expansion Approved

The City Council deliberated and approved a request from the Groves Chamber of Commerce to operate and expand the beer garden during the 2026 Groves Fall Festival. The expansion will include the band stage area, with controlled entrances monitored by police officers. Safety measures and operational hours were discussed, ensuring youth activities are completed before the expanded area opens. Increased revenue is intended to secure larger band performances, responding to community requests for more entertainment. The expansion aims to attract larger crowds and enhance the overall festival experience, with commitments to maintaining a safe, family-friendly environment. Modifications were made to address fire and emergency management concerns, including additional emergency exit gates and the relocation of portable toilets. Trash management and manpower for servicing dumpsters were also discussed and addressed.

City Implements New Procedures for Waste Management and Bulk Trash Collection

The Solid Waste Department conducted a garbage can audit and identified 252 addresses paying for one cart but using multiple. To address this, new procedures include more frequent audits, checking cart numbers during occupancy changes, and assigning carts to addresses. Green carts signify payment for one cart, while brown carts indicate additional carts. The department is also enforcing the ordinance of two cubic yards per week for bulk trash, with charges for exceeding this limit. A resident praised the politeness of staff when addressing an oversized trash pile. The change in enforcement for bulk and green waste was attributed to the cessation of a program where a company chipped waste for free, leading to increased costs for the city. Discussions also covered the placement and cost of dumpsters and portable toilets.