Amarillo · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Amarillo public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Ordinance Implementation and Board Governance
A review of how board members' terms run and how nominations happen — the mechanics of who serves on the tourism board and how they get there.
Film Commission Annual Report
The Film Commission's annual report covers efforts to bring film and video productions to Amarillo, which bring crews, spending, and visibility to the city.
SPS Electric Rate Case Response
The council formally denied SPS's proposed tariff changes for large customers like data centers, joining a coalition of cities to argue new big users should cover their own infrastructure costs rather than shifting risk to existing households.
SE 34th Avenue Railroad Bridge Repairs
The city committed its $433,250 share (10%) of a TXDOT partnership to repair the SE 34th Avenue railroad bridge.
City View Estates Unit No. 23 Plat Review
The commission was scheduled to evaluate a 0.91-acre unplatted tract for new development near Knoll Drive and Western Street.
Colonies PID Financial Oversight
The board evaluated the financial position and outstanding budget of the public improvement district to manage funds responsibly. Proper financial review helps keep neighborhood assessments aligned with community needs.
Part 150 Noise Study and Community Programs
Updates were presented on the Part 150 noise study to address community noise impacts and the Taking Flight program.
PROTECT Grant Program Application Support
Local leaders will consider supporting a federal grant application aimed at making Amarillo's transportation infrastructure more resilient to weather and natural hazards.
Police Partnership
Amarillo Police are teaming up with Family Support Services to make it way easier for domestic violence survivors to get the help they need. Basically, police and support experts are joining forces to provide a smoother, more accessible safety net for victims.
Variance Request for 8341 S. Continental Parkway
An applicant requested a variance to reduce the rear yard setback and increase lot coverage for a residential property in The Colonies. This type of request alters standard development rules and can influence neighborhood spacing and building density.
Metropolitan Area Boundary and Bylaw Updates
The committee was scheduled to look at updating its geographic boundaries and operational bylaws to reflect current regional growth.
Commercial Alley Requirement Variances (West End Village)
Developers of an 88-acre commercial project near Interstate 40 and Helium Road received a waiver from city rules requiring alleys. City officials and commissioners agreed that commercial traffic and utility needs can be handled safely via main roadways and easements.
Strategic Discussion for 'The Long Trail'
Board members engaged in strategic planning concerning 'The Long Trail' project to guide future tourism and community development efforts.
Cybersecurity Protections for Firefighter Records
The board discussed tightening cybersecurity measures across all entities that handle sensitive firefighter information by coordinating with city IT security protocols.
Vineyards PID Vendor Selection and Operations
The board was set to discuss ongoing management of the Heritage Hills public improvement district and evaluate vendor proposals for contract BVB 416-26, which impacts local neighborhood maintenance and district services.
Renaming of East Park
Family members and local residents requested that East Park be permanently renamed to Gabriel Chavez Park to honor a local World War II hero and recognize the neighborhood's heritage. The board authorized staff to post required public notices to advance the renaming process.
School Campus Utilization
Amarillo ISD is dealing with shrinking enrollment, which means some neighborhood schools might be closing or changing their purpose soon. If you live near a campus, it’s time to pay attention to these upcoming district decisions.
Administrative and Health Program Reports
Department heads presented updates on animal management, environmental health, public health, and WIC nutrition programs, keeping the board informed on vital community services.
Big Texan RV Park Expansion Rezoning
A developer is expanding the Big Texan RV park onto 9.23 acres near Sunrise Drive, adding 131 spaces with strict landscape and fencing buffers to protect neighboring homes.
Coulter Street Commercial Retail Expansion
Three lots near Coulter Street and 77th Avenue are being rezoned from residential and office use to General Retail to accommodate upcoming commercial corridor development.
Commercial Property Assessments Ordinance
The board discussed a new proposed ordinance changing how commercial properties are assessed within the district.
District Operations and Management
The board was scheduled to review ongoing administrative and operational matters for the Homestead PID.
Landscape Maintenance Contract with Stan's Lawn Care
The board was scheduled to review landscaping contract terms for maintaining common areas in the district.
Park Renaming Policy
The board is creating a formal process for renaming parks to ensure it's done fairly and with proper historical verification.
Alley Vacation
A developer wants to vacate a public alley between SE 10th Avenue and South Buchanan Street to build a new hotel and parking lot. Because the developer owns both sides of the alley and is giving the city a free utility easement, the city agreed to waive land purchase fees.
Real Property Acquisition
Amarillo families can breathe easier! A recent deal between the city and residents means a family's home is now protected, ending a long-standing dispute.
Downtown Parking Lot Construction and Variance at 1013 S. Van Buren St.
First Presbyterian Church proposed building a new parking lot at 1013 S. Van Buren St. along with a variance allowing more than one entrance or exit per block frontage. The board was set to evaluate whether the design fits downtown guidelines.
MPO Director Performance and Evaluation
The committee discussed the performance of the MPO Director, including an evaluation in executive session. This ensures accountability and effective leadership for the organization.
Alley Vacation
Get ready for some traffic headaches! SE 4th Avenue is seeing partial closures as crews tackle sewer main repairs. This means you'll need to find a new route for a while, so plan ahead to avoid getting stuck.
AISD Amtech Campus Digital Signage Agreement
Amarillo ISD sought an interlocal agreement to turn on digital display signs at the Amtech campus that previously exceeded sign code dimensions. The council approved an agreement allowing the signs to operate at a conforming 275-square-foot display size.
Ten Commandments Monument on City Hall Grounds
The council approved accepting a privately funded Ten Commandments monument to be placed on the city hall lawn.
Conflict of Interest Compliance
Board members will review ethics and conflict of interest guidelines to ensure transparency and compliance with Texas law during decision-making.
Street Name Change
A street name was officially changed from Premiere Drive to Inspire Way.
Committee Leadership Appointments
The committee elected new leadership, appointing Kim Benson as Chair and Darlene Martin as Vice Chair. This ensures the committee has designated leaders for its upcoming activities.
Inter-Agency Collaboration Committee
A new committee was formed to improve communication and coordination between the Events Venue District, the Tri-State Exposition, and the Civic Center. This aims to create a more unified approach to event management.
Public Concerns on Commissioner Conduct
Randall County Commissioners are holding a meeting on April 28th. What's on the agenda? You'll have to tune in to find out what decisions are being made that could affect you.
Tradewind Airpark Unit No. 22 Plat Approval
The commission reviewed and approved several plat cases for new subdivisions and replats, ensuring they meet city ordinances and development requirements. Some approvals came with conditions related to zoning, infrastructure, or documentation.
Homelessness Count
Amarillo's annual homeless count is delayed until Friday. This isn't just a number crunch; it's how the city figures out where to put resources to help people without homes.
Water Main Breaks
Water main breaks are popping up all over Amarillo, and city crews are working overtime to fix them. You might see some traffic delays or water issues while they're on the job.
Water Main Break
Heads up, Amarillo! A water main has broken, and it's causing some serious disruptions. Keep an eye out for updates on when things will be back to normal and if your water service will be affected.
Heritage Hills West End Improvement Design
The board reviewed a fresh improvement design from TLA meant to upgrade the west end of the Heritage Hills neighborhood. Better landscaping or hardscaping could enhance neighborhood appeal, but exact costs and plans remain unconfirmed.
Tutbury PID Management and Operations
The advisory board was scheduled to discuss management contracts and ongoing maintenance for the Tutbury Public Improvement District, but the meeting was canceled.
Board Liaison Retirement
The board discussed the upcoming retirement of a key staff member. This involves planning for how their duties will be covered to maintain smooth operations.
Data Center Development
Amarillo residents are pushing back against a proposed data center, fearing it'll bring noise, traffic jams, and put a strain on the local power supply. They're making sure the city hears their worries loud and clear.
Embezzlement Conviction
An Amarillo city employee got caught with their hand in the cookie jar, stealing over $121,000! This isn't just pocket change; it's a serious blow to the city's budget and public trust.
Traffic Calming Measures
Tired of speeders on your block? Amarillo's rolling out a new way for you to request speed cushions. It's all about making your neighborhood streets safer for everyone.
Water Quality Report
Good news, Amarillo! Your tap water is safe to drink. The city's latest water quality report shows everything is meeting federal and state standards, so you can keep sipping without worry.