By JACQI LEYVA-HILL
Special to the PRESS
The Port Isabel City Commission advanced updated towing regulations, approved a regional mutual-aid agreement and authorized several other measures during its regular meeting Tuesday, July 28.
Commissioners approved the first reading of Ordinance 710, which would repeal and replace the city’s existing towing ordinance. City officials explained that a previous proposal sought to amend numerous provisions, but they decided a new ordinance would make the regulations clearer.
The proposed ordinance extends the amount of time towing companies have to respond to calls and includes separate response provisions for heavy-duty towing, which officials said can take longer. It also requires vehicle impound lots to provide receipts to customers. Officials said they would continue refining the ordinance before it returns for a second reading and possible adoption.
The commission also approved a renewed master mutual-aid agreement with the Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council. Officials said the agreement allows Port Isabel to provide or receive assistance from participating agencies across the region, including fire and police departments.
Commissioners approved the first reading of a resolution authorizing the Port Isabel Economic Development Corporation to spend project funds on planning and design services. Officials said the project involves a proposed digital sign near the churches area that would display rotating information instead of the banners currently used there.
The commission also authorized the closure of portions of Longoria and Monroe streets for a church bazaar scheduled for Sept. 26 and 27. During the discussion, commissioners established closure times of 5 to 11 p.m. Sept. 26 and 4 to 10 p.m. Sept. 27.
Three vehicles, including a Dodge Charger and Chevrolet Impala, were declared surplus and approved for disposal. A commissioner requested advance notification when the vehicles are posted on the city’s auction website after previously having difficulty locating surplus items online.
During a departmental report concerning a roadway project, officials said water draining from a warehouse and heavy delivery trucks stopping in the wet area were contributing to deterioration of the street. The city is considering replacing the affected section with concrete. Officials said the process of hiring an engineer for the design work was underway. They said the construction schedule would become clearer after the design is completed and a contractor is selected, while also noting that state approval and funding timelines could limit scheduling flexibility.
The agenda also included a closed session for discussions involving litigation, real estate matters and the possible release of extraterritorial jurisdiction.
The Port Isabel City Commission is scheduled to meet again at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11, at 305 E. Maxan St. The commission generally meets on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month.