By: Jacqi Leyva-Hill
The Port Isabel City Commission held a special meeting this week following the cancellation of its regularly scheduled October 14 meeting. The session included several city approvals and appointments.
The Commission approved the creation of the new Port Isabel Animal Shelter Advisory Board and appointed initial members Oscar del Abra, Lexus Martinez, Tiffany Ochoa, Nelda Vega, and John Sandoval. One additional member has yet to be confirmed. The motion to approve the appointments was made by Commissioner Martinez and seconded by Commissioner Cooper, passing unanimously. No board meetings have yet been scheduled.
During the meeting, John Sandoval was recognized as Officer of the Year for his dedication and leadership. The award was presented by Lexus Martinez, president of the Texas Environmental Health Association South Texas Chapter.
Commissioners approved a master use agreement between the City of Port Isabel and Cameron County for participation in the Code Red 911 emergency notification system. The system will enhance the city’s ability to communicate with residents during emergencies.
Travel and training requests were also approved for several city staff members. EMS Director Charlie Wood will attend the Texas EMS Conference in November for recertification. Library Director Jeannie Flores will represent the city at the Texas Library Association Annual Conference in Houston next March. City Secretary Susie Alcocer and Deputy City Secretary Mayra Cruz were approved to attend the Election Law Seminar in Rockwall in January. City Manager Jared Hockema and Marketing Director Valerie Bates will attend the Texas Historical Quarterly Meeting in November.
The Commission approved a resolution denying a proposed gas rate increase submitted by Texas Gas Service Company.
In other action, commissioners voted to allow the Port Isabel Housing Authority to join the city’s employee health insurance plan and approved advertising for proposals for the Downtown Sidewalk Project, which will be funded through a combination of grant and local resources.
The meeting concluded with a closed session to discuss real property and contractual matters.