RICHLAND COUNCIL WELCOME NEW MEMBER REVIEWS FINANCES AND CITY SERVICES

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By E. Haddock

The Richland City Council held its regular meeting on September 11, 2025, at City Hall, with Mayor Jerry Morris presiding and City Secretary Ronda Franks present. Caren Smith was sworn in after being elected unopposed in the 2025 general election, officially commencing her term.
Following the swearing-in, council members addressed city business. The August financial report was reviewed and approved, and authorization was given for the city secretary to transfer funds as needed to a designated account for financial management. The council discussed and considered renewal of a certificate of deposit and approved closing the technology fund and security fund due to inactivity.
Public works and utility updates were provided by the water department, covering topics such as new meter purchases, fee adjustments, and cost increases related to parts and labor.

In public safety matters, the council established a $50 fee per request for police body camera or in-car camera video footage, citing population growth. Trash services were also discussed, with an update noting continued service despite increased costs.
A budget workshop was scheduled, with project information available at the Civic Center. The council considered nominees for the Navarro Central Appraisal District board and deferred several items for future meetings, including towing service contracts, driveway culvert standards, and zoning amendments. Approval of the August 14 meeting minutes included updates on airport operations and prospective grant applications.
The meeting ended with an executive session for private discussion and was then adjourned.