BG City Council Discuss Potential Agreement with City of Frost

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By Marcy Dillon

Last Monday, the Blooming Grove City Council met to cover several key topics, including the approval of previous meeting minutes, the recognition of visitors and reports from several department heads.

The city secretary discussed the need to amend the code of ordinances in order to comply with the Texas Open Meetings Act. The public safety department reported the positive compliance of city ordinances by the mailing of regular letters thus limiting the need to send certified letters.

Also discussed was the implementation of a potential interlocal agreement with the city of Frost that would combine the two police departments, working to increase coverage and efficiency. The council agreed to review a similar agreement between the cities of Richland and Angus and then hold a work session to discuss concerns and expectations.

The council welcomed the Blooming Grove Independent School District Superintendent, John Griggs, to the floor for a discussion regarding the sale or trade of the Block K property which is majority owned by the school with just a small corner belonging to the city. The school is seeking to acquire the small city owned portion and then selling the entire tract to a developer for potential future housing within the city. Both parties discussed options for a sale or property swap to facilitate development and agreed to revisit the discussion after exploring legal options.

The approved Fiscal Year 2024 Audit showed a positive change in the general fund balance but also called attention to the need to be vigilant when managing the water and sewer fund.

Another order of business on the agenda was a discussion regarding whether the city should apply for the Asset Management Program for the water system. In doing so, the city would be provided with an assessment of the city’s water infrastructure and help to secure future grants.

The council approved opening a new consolidated fund for security and technology and amendments to the health and sanitation ordinance were approved. The meeting concluded with the scheduling of additional workshops and meetings before being adjourned.