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July 21, 2026 Wichita Falls City Council
Published: Jul 21, 2026
Janice Bailey Named Employee of the Month; City Proclaims Parks and Recreation Month
The City Council recognized Janice Bailey as Employee of the Month for July 2026. Bailey, a senior admin clerk for the street maintenance department, has been with the city for 34 years. Her contributions include managing accounts payable, ordering supplies, assisting employees, and handling citizen complaints, earning her the nickname 'pothole queen'. The recognition included a letter of appreciation, a gift card, and a $200 check. The council also issued a proclamation for National Parks and Recreation Month, acknowledging the department's role in enhancing quality of life through park stewardship, recreational programs, and community engagement.
Police Chief Finalists Named; Wildfire Mitigation Project Underway
The City Manager provided an update on the police chief search, announcing four finalists: Captain Kevin Fulmar (Wichita Falls PD), Captain Jonathan Lindsay (Wichita Falls PD), Assistant Chief Victor Humphrey (Carrollton PD), and Chief Donald Miller (Burkburnett). The city manager has the authority to appoint the chief, but the city council must confirm or reject the choice. Interviews are scheduled for July 28th, and a decision will be made no earlier than August 4th, with potential council confirmation in August or September. The city manager also provided an update on the fire department's wildfire mitigation program, detailing the Tanglewood Unit 1 project funded by a grant and city match, which aims to reduce wildfire risk in residential areas through fuel breaks. The project involves several fire department personnel and will improve community resilience and protection for homes and infrastructure in high-risk areas.
City Council Approves Grant Application to Enhance Gelanik Park
The City Council approved the submission of a grant application to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for the Local Parks Non-Urban Outdoor Grant Program. The proposed project focuses on enhancing Gelanik Park by adding a new fitness playground, a new restroom facility that can also serve as a tornado shelter, and renovating the existing children's playground. The total project cost is estimated at $615,000, with the city seeking $307,500 from the grant and matching it with $307,500. The application deadline is August 3rd, and the city will be notified of the award status in January.
Residents Voice Concerns on Transparency, Governance, and Service Delivery
During the public comment period, multiple speakers raised concerns about transparency and governance. Kevin Hunter read an anonymous letter containing allegations of misconduct involving city officials, urging for an independent investigation. Meyer Jodesia detailed issues with aggressive door-to-door solicitors violating municipal codes and expressed frustration with the enforcement of ordinances. Steve Garner praised the City Finance Department and CFO Stephen Calvert for fiscal responsibility, particularly regarding Certificates of Obligation and sales tax revenue allocation. John Rashu criticized the administration for alleged misinformation and deflection regarding public records, citing examples of outdoor warning sirens and TIF 3 board activity. Kathy Dotson questioned items on the consent agenda, particularly a resolution to retain outside legal counsel for flooding matters, seeking public explanation for lawsuits. Deborah Clark raised concerns about the city selling water for industrial purposes (Oklahoma Union Power Station, data center) while residents are asked to fund a new reservoir, questioning the decision-making process and potential conflicts of interest. Crystal Washington highlighted issues at Booker T. Washington Elementary School, including a rat infestation and alleged health inspection score discrepancies. Mel Martinez affirmed that the CDBG funds process was more involved than a consent agenda item. Council members also addressed various points, including defending the administration and clarifying processes for public comments and agenda items.
MPEC Seeks Naming Rights Partner; Convention Business Surges
The City Manager provided an update on the naming rights for the MPEC (Multi-Purpose Event Center) complex and convention activity. An RFP for the naming rights of the entire complex, excluding specific venues like the Kay Yeager Coliseum, has been issued and closes on August 14th. The goal is to generate revenue to support the facility and increase show activity. The city has seen significant growth in convention bookings, with 16 conferences completed or scheduled for the current year, compared to nine in 2025 and five in 2024. Projections for 2027 already show 10 booked conferences. This increase in conventions and event activity is noted to benefit the local economy, businesses, and tourism.
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