By Colin Killian, Public Communications Director
Welcome to our live blog from the College Station City Council meeting on Thursday, April 9. It's not the official minutes.
The meeting starts after 6 p.m. and is streamed live on Optimum Channel 19 and cstx.gov/cstv19. You can participate online through Microsoft Teams by entering Meeting ID 287 987 474 175 and Passcode gZw5cS. You can also call 469-480-7460 and enter Conference Number 168 564 318#.
6:03 p.m.
The meeting has started. The Council took no action after its executive session.
6:12 p.m.
National Library Week
Mayor John Nichols proclaimed April 19-25 as National Library Week to encourage residents to visit the Larry J. Ringer Library, explore its resources, and celebrate the ways it benefits our community.
Libraries provide free access to books, digital tools, and innovative programming, ensuring all individuals have the support they need to learn, connect, and thrive. Joining the mayor for the presentation were B+CS Library System Director Bea Saba and members of Friends of the Library.
6:16 p.m.
Texas A&M Student Government Reps
Mayor Nichols presented certificates of recognition to Ainsleigh Broadwell and Lauren Clark for their service in representing the Texas A&M Student Government Association in interactions with the City during the 2005-26 school year. Clayton Williams was unable to be here tonight but will also receive a certificate.
6:30 p.m.
Hear Visitors
Two citizens spoke during Hear Visitors, where citizens may address the Council on any item not on the posted agenda.
- John Hamilton spoke against the use of Flock cameras in College Station.
- Charles Elliott, speaking on behalf of a group of eight, discussed drainage issues and the potential need to expand the Bee Creek basin.
6:33 p.m.
Consent Agenda
The Council unanimously approved the entire consent agenda:
- The first reading of a franchise agreement ordinance with M27 Services for the collection of recyclables from commercial businesses and multi-family locations.
- A $1.32 million contract with Tyler Technologies for enterprise planning and development software.
- A $672,793 change order to a contract with Norman Construction Services for the State Highway 6 Utility Relocation Bid Package 1, with $372,793 being covered by the project contingency and $300,000 coming from a new authorization of funds.
- A contract not to exceed $2.43 million with GridTech for the construction of the Post Oak Electric Substation Yard Expansion project.
- A $120,737.82 contract with Avinext to upgrade and reconfigure the broadcast production room and associated equipment in the City Hall Council Chamber.
- A change order with UBEO for an additional plotter, increasing the lease agreement by $15,900 for a total of $102,270.
- The subdivision participation and release form for the six remnant defendants settlement regarding opioids.
On a separate vote, the Council voted 6-0 to approve a five-year employment contract with City Attorney Adam Falco. Councilman Bob Yancy abstained.
10:54 p.m.
Pebble Creek Parkway Extension
The Council voted 4-3 in favor of removing the future southward extension of Pebble Creek Parkway from the City's Comprehensive Plan by amending the Thoroughfare Plan and Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Greenways Master Plan. Mayor John Nichols, Councilman William Wright and Councilwoman Melissa McIlhaney voted against the motion.
More than 40 people spoke in support of the removal during the public hearing.
The extension had been part of the Comprehensive Plan since 1991, the same year the master development plan for the Pebble Creek subdivision was approved. The Council previously approved a staff report and directed that the roadway would have only two lanes.
Based on a technical review, staff recommended denying the request due to the long-term negative impact removing the future extension would have on the transportation network, connectivity, and emergency response in the area.
10:59 p.m.
Mayor Nichols asked for prayers for Bryan City Manager Andrew Nelson, who is undergoing a medical evaluation concerning a serious health issue.
11:09 p.m.
Mayor Nichols adjourned the meeting after the Council discussed its calendar, items of community interest, committee and board reports, and future agenda items. The Council meets again on April 23.
About the Blogger
Colin Killian has been with the City of College Station since 2010, following a 23-year tenure as associate media relations director at Texas A&M Athletics. He has also worked as a reporter and editor for the Corpus Christi Caller-Times and Lewisville News. A native of Hobbs, N.M., Killian graduated from Texas Tech with a bachelor's degree in journalism/political science.
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