Development News for Orange, Texas

City Council Tables Tree Trimming Permit Ordinance for Further Discussion

The council discussed and moved to table a proposed ordinance amendment regarding tree cutting and trimming services. The ordinance aims to require permits for tree cutting or trimming services for hire. Concerns were raised by a representative of a disaster relief 501c3 organization (Ricky Parker) who felt the permit requirement was burdensome for non-profit work. The definition of the service and potential waivers for non-profits were debated. Ultimately, the council decided to table the ordinance (specifically item 8B concerning the fee schedule) for further discussion, with a motion to do so passing with a majority vote. The initial ordinance (item 8A) also passed with a majority vote, with the understanding that the fee aspect would be addressed in the tabled item.

Citizen Comments Highlight Animal Welfare, Film Festival, and Permit Concerns

During the citizen comments section, several residents addressed the council. Dr. Kelly Kayes from Beaumont Pets Alive spoke about the improved live release rate for animals in the Orange shelter, noting an increase from 47% to 87% from January to April. She encouraged the council to adopt a trap-neuter-release (TNR) ordinance and establish a volunteer program. Tina Pig also spoke in favor of the TNR ordinance, emphasizing its role in controlling the cat population and assisting organizations like Beaumont Pets Alive. Ricky Parker, representing a disaster relief 501c3, voiced concerns about the permit requirements for tree cutting services, arguing that non-profits performing free work should be exempt. Candace Harrison presented the Orange Film and Arts Festival, scheduled for November, which aims to promote arts education and will include film, mural, visual, and theater arts. She highlighted the potential economic benefits of becoming a film-friendly city, noting that a new state tax incentive exists and that one production is already confirmed to film in Orange next April. The festival is a registered 501c3 and focuses on education with free screenings.

Council Authorizes Trojan Technologies for Wastewater Treatment Plant UV Basin Repair

The City Council authorized the city manager to enter into an agreement with Trojan Technologies for repairs to the wastewater treatment plant UV basin. The repair is the final step related to damage from a diesel spill in 2021. The total cost of the repair is approximately $150,399.78, as the Texas Municipal League risk pool insurance claim covered $786,420 of the total cost. The electrical work will be absorbed by the public utilities division's operating budget. This resolution passed with a unanimous vote.

City Council Approves EDC Infrastructure Grant for King's Clean

The City Council approved an Economic Development Corporation (EDC) infrastructure grant agreement with Joe Lewis King Jr. at King's Clean. The agreement is for an amount not to exceed $35,000 and will help offset infrastructure costs such as concrete, electrical, and plumbing for a proposed $528,000 capital investment at the site. This resolution passed with a unanimous vote.