The City Council experienced a quick turnaround with the April 3rd session, returning to their regular schedule. The entire session lasted 11 minutes.
Mayor Patrick McNulty addressed his fellow council members, apologizing for what he considered one of the worst displays of public comments he has witnessed during his time on the council. McNulty announced his commitment to enforcing a three-minute maximum for individual comments and stated that he won’t allow what he deemed as attacks on the council or SPI employees.
During the public comments of the March 27th session, residents pleaded with the Council about resident safety and the enforcement of City ordinances. The longest comment, by Jennifer Stout, involved the reading aloud of police reports detailing the trauma she endured on her property during Spring Break.
McNulty explained to Island Matters in a phone call that he believes it's unfair to criticize individuals, especially the SPIPD, who worked hard during the Spring Break season and cannot defend themselves. He noted that the SPIPD attended to over 1,700 calls.
McNulty emphasized that when someone attacks individuals who are unable to respond or defend themselves, it is disrespectful and often based on misinformation. He advised residents to address their grievances with elected officials, either by adding them to the agenda for discussion or by contacting the appropriate person for assistance.
City Council member Joe Ricco then expressed gratitude to multiple city employees, thanking them for their hard work during Spring Break week.
Regular Agenda
5.1
The Council approved Cameron County’s Letter of Support for the United States Postal Service’s name designation of Starbase for the area of the county where SpaceX operates.
5.3
The Council approved the purchase of the Siddons-Martins ladder truck and pumper truck in the amount of up to $2.3 million. Fire Chief Jim Pigg explained that adding a second pumper prevents the Fire Department from having to borrow from other departments when theirs is in maintenance. Chief Pig stated that with proper maintenance, each truck has a life expectancy of 10-15 years.
5.4
The Council approved reducing the number of seats on the Special Events committee from seven to five. At the time of the vote, there were four members on the board with three vacancies.
5.5
Brandi Greenwood was appointed by the Council to be the fifth member of the Special Events committee. Greenwood is the owner of the SPI restaurant, F&B.
The next City Council session is scheduled for April 17th.
