City Council considers Road Agreement with County

During its regular Feb. 07, 2017 meeting, the Forney City Council met and (this is the preliminary report, subject to change):

• First Quarter Budget Update: Ms. Woodham presented financial data, major initiatives: reduced tax rate 4.7 cents, Fire Station #2, Animal shelter, water rate increase. Capital purchases of police and fire vehicles, grounds maintenance equipment. Mr. Stephens asked if the fire inspector had been selected; Ms. Woodham wasn't sure, but the vehicle has been ordered.
  
• Approved, as Consent items:
  • the quarterly investment report ending 12/31/16.

• Approved a Resolution approving an Interlocal Agreement with Kaufman County for road maintenance, enhancements, repairs and other projects as requested by the City.
  Mr. Thatcher said he has inquired with county if road/bridge department could help. If the agreement is approved, the city would provide a scope of work, escrow the funds, the county would perform the work, then be paid by the city. This is a one-year agreement. Mayor Wilson said the county would bring this up at their Monday meeting.
  
• Approved a Wrecker/Towing Service Agreement between the City of Forney and Buster’s Automotive.
  Mr. Fisher said city has had this agreement quite some time, with the changing of chiefs, he wanted to bring this to council. Mr. Stephens said there were multiple towing companies, asked if this was put out for bids; Mr. Fisher said it did, this was the only response, possibly because the requirements were to have a yard inside city limits. Chief Sherwin said the rates were comparable.
  
• Appointed Amanda Lewis to the Forney Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors.
  
  
• Postponed discussing High Point Water Supply Corporation contract and billing practices.
  Mayor Wilson said High Point requested this be tabled; Mr. Fisher recommended it be discussed in executive session.
  
• Approved an Ordinance approving the Purchase Agreement and related contract documents for the purchase of the Pinson Farm.
  Mr. Thatcher said this had been before council before; the owner, Leon Harp, requested the property be used as a historic public space. Mr. Stephens said this was a great deal for the community. Mr. Harp spoke, said this came about due to the death of his wife, has been in Pinson family since 1888. His wife's wish was for a city park on the 16 acres. Mayor Wilson said this is a great thing to preserve culture and history. Mr. Johnson said this was a great opportunity to invest in the community.
  
• City Manager’s Report -

• Council Comments -

• Held a 54-minute executive session re:
  
  • NTMWD

• No Action taken.
  
• Adjourned at 1956