Although a public hearing on a request from John Ewald of Ewald Kubota Inc. for the annexation of 6.995 acres located on US Hwy. 190 West consisting of two parcels was held during the May 13 meeting of the Livingston City Council, action on the request was tabled in order to gather more information.
Stephanie Harris with Crowe LLP presented the city’s annual comprehensive financial report for the fiscal year that ended Sept. 30, 2024, giving the city “a clean, unmodified opinion, the highest level one can achieve.” Council approved the report as presented.
Council accepted the resignation of Municipal Court Judge Dana Williams and presented her a certificate of appreciation thanking her for her service.
“Back in January I got an email I didn’t want to get, but she has a growing practice and a lot of irons in the fire. She wanted to fulfill her term, but said she would be leaving in May,” City Manager Bill S. Wiggins said of Williams.
In related activity, Council approved the appointment of Darrell Greer as the new municipal court judge for a two-year term beginning June 1, 2025 and ending May 31, 2027. City Secretary/Assistant City Manager Ellie Monteaux administered the oath of office to Greer.
Change Order No. 1 in the amount of $18,096.77 – in conjunction with the downtown drainage improvements project – was approved. Payment request No. 6 from 5-T Utilities, for the same project, was also approved.
Wiggins reviewed the first six months of the current budget. Following his presentation, Council approved a proposed ordinance amending Ordinance No. 849 adopting budget for fiscal year 2024-2025 to include two budget adjustments.
During his monthly report on projects and events, Wiggins reported there are presently 16 residential home permits underway. He reported that the city has been in communication with Eastex Telephone about the expansion of services into the city limits and that Comcast has also expressed interest in providing services locally.
Wiggins reported that 5-T Utilities has started the 12-inch water line project on Old 35 on Cemetery Hill. He also reported that the scope of the Texas General Land Office street improvement project for North Willis and East West Streets has been expanded to include some drainage work on West West Street.
Council entered into an executive session to consult with its attorney, but took no action upon return to open session.
Other business included approval of the minutes of the April 8 meeting and accounts over $2,500.
