Deer Park City is seeking a new city council member following Heather Newsom’s resignation. Applications are now open, and residents have a unique opportunity to shape their local government.
After years of debate, City Councilmembers have now been given access to official city email accounts. The discussion started before COVID and ended following the recent election, with the majority of Councilmembers in favor of joining the rest of the world online.
For the first time in over 20 years, three new Councilmembers have simultaneously taken the oath of office. Former Councilmember Hellen “Dee” Cragun first took her position in 1997, lost her reelection attempt last year.
Deer Park City Council has enacted a law addressing homelessness and public space usage. Influenced by legal considerations at the federal level, the ordinance introduces clear definitions, identifies restricted areas, and establishes procedures for homeless camp removal.
Large lots of land were annexed into the city with a split decision to bypass the city’s routine ordinance procedures. Lakeside Development, a land development, is slated to build 111 homes. The City Council also approved a contract with Retail Strategies to bring more national chains to Deer Park.
Each year, the city holds a City Budget Workshop for the Mayor & City Council to approve the budget for the following year. While the meeting is open for the public to attend, public comment will not be permitted.
Expanding the Deer Park city limits is the result of a recent annexation request that was expedited by the city council. Another expansion is in the works, but moving at a slower pace.
The City Pool will open soon. The City Council debated and voted on hiring a consultant to complete the Law Enforcement Study. Growing Deer Park with annexation request and 107 new homes approved for development.
New Sheriff contract adds more law enforcement, with potential for more in the future. Council rejects modern communications for council members and meetings. City begins multi-year process of updating comprehensive plan.
Money was the hot topic at the last city council meeting. The Council Chambers filled near capacity as many people wanted to be heard. The City Hall building and concerns about taxes were frequently mentioned. Traffic and modes of transport were also discussed.
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