City Council was back in session on Wednesday, May 15th. Here is everything you need to know about the 51-minute meeting:
Public comments were once again dominated by citizens from all over the Rio Grande Valley voicing their concerns over the potential birding habitat by the Convention Center. The message was clear and consistent: while everyone is excited about the Convention Center expanding, it should not come at the cost of the birding habitat. Convention and Visitors Center Executive Director Blake Henry was in attendance and publicly thanked everyone for their concerns. Henry stated that preserving the habitat is a priority and he is hopeful for expansion of the area for the direct benefit of the birding community.
6.1
The Council passed several amendments to Ordinance 24-02 while adding subsections to Section 15. This included regulations on political signage that had been discussed in previous council meetings (60 days before an election to put signs up, 10 days after to take them down) as well as removal procedures for signs that stay up past the 10 days. City Attorney Ed Cyganiewicz added a definition of hardship, stating that he hopes it adds clarity to what a hardship is.
6.2
The Council passed a budget amendment of $34,095.00 from the General Fund Excess Reserves for the purchase of a WatchGuard Server for the South Padre Island Police Department. This will allow the police to store body-cam footage as well as public records.
6.3
The Council approved ranking, submission, and letters of support for Coastal Management Program Cycle 30’s proposals. In order of ranking, the submissions include Tompkins Channel Navigational Marker, Dune Health and Sediment Tracking, Beach Access 3 renovations, and Beach Access 11 renovations.
6.4
The Council terminated the contract with Hanson Professional Services Inc. for all services related to the Wind and Water Sports Venue. Councilman Joe Ricco and Mayor Patrick McNulty expressed their frustrations with the company, blaming them for the lack of progress in the park.
6.5
A draft of Chapter Nine of the South Padre Island Code of Ordinances was passed by the Council. Chapter Nine mainly focuses on garbage, trash, weeds, and other waste materials.
6.6
The Council approved the SPI Holiday Sandcastle Village Special to obtain a permit for one additional year. A popular place in the entertainment district, it will now be open until at least June of 2025.
The next City Council session will take place on May 29th.
