Despite inclement weather, the City Council still proceeded with its regularly scheduled June 19th meeting. Here are the notes from the one-hour session:
A representative from Animal Rescue took the podium during public comments and announced the May and June numbers for the animals received during those months. Sixty-two animals came into the animal shelter in May, while 43 came in June. The representative stated that the majority of the animals have been kittens. She also announced and invited the public to see their new building on Tuesday, June 25th.
Public Works provided an update on the drainage department concerning the inclement weather South Padre Island has experienced over the last few days. The representative reported that all is well, explaining that with the amount of rain, it takes a bit longer for the water to be cleared and go into the bay. The representative stated that Public Works is continuing to monitor the situation and invited anyone with questions to reach out at Pwcares@myspi.org.
5.1
A presentation was given showing the landscape for the 2024-25 Fiscal Year budget for the City of South Padre Island. Some notable takeaways were: total revenue is projected at $16.2 million; appraisal values saw an increase of 5.63%; taxable value under Cameron County review is close to $434 million; the hotel/motel occupancy tax is projected to be $12 million; the total expenditure budget is projected to be $16 million, with 59% of the budget allocated to public safety.
5.2
A presentation was given showing the landscape for the 2024-25 Fiscal Year budget for the City of South Padre Island. The improvement plan highlights long-term community goals, cost estimates, and time schedules, among other details. The top projects mentioned included beach renourishment, dune restoration, and the Marisol Boat Ramp. Other projects mentioned were the Venue Tax Election Project, the Convention Center Expansion, Wind Sports Park, and Water Tower Park Renovation.
5.3
The last presentation was by Convention and Visitors Bureau Director Blake Henry and Harmony Heard, Director of Sales for the CVB, announcing April’s economic impact and how the expanded convention center will help secure more tourism. Heard said 18 sales leads were made in April, with a potential of 4,010 room nights if each lead was secured. In addition, 2,121 future room nights were secured with closed deals to host 22 events at the convention center. These numbers led to a 37% increase from April 2023. Heard spotlighted two conventions that would only be possible with the Convention Center expansion, and highlighted the economic benefits of South Padre Island being able to host them.
5.4
City Council approved a purchase of Fire Trucks for the amount of $2,350,000.
5.5
The Council also approved action on the RESTORE Act amendment request. Shoreline Director Kristina Boburka announced plans for a boat ramp and construction. The estimated funds for the project are $1.5 million, while their grant funds are only $1.1 million. Boburka has requested another $400,000 to match the total for the project. The $400,000 needs approval by the US Treasury, which could take until the early months of 2025. Boburka stated there’s a high chance the request will be approved. The Council decided to wait for the US Treasury’s decision instead of using city funds to cover the rest of the cost.
The next City Council meeting is scheduled for July 3rd.
