Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Amarillo public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
50 issues with high priority
Subrecipient Program Updates
The Salvation Army and Transformation Park will present updates on their programs and how they are using community development funds to serve local populations.
Amarillo City Transit Coordinated Plan
The committee is reviewing updates to Amarillo's long-range transportation blueprint, which guides future road, transit, and infrastructure investments across the metro area.
Center City of Amarillo Services Agreement Renewal
The board will consider renewing its services agreement with Center City of Amarillo, Inc., which shapes how downtown promotion and development are managed.
2025-2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan Revisions
The committee is reviewing updates to Amarillo's long-range transportation blueprint, which guides future road, transit, and infrastructure investments across the metro area.
Residential Development Growth
Developers are seeking to rezone over 21 acres of agricultural land near Temecula Creek Boulevard to Residential District 3, opening the area up for new housing construction.
Improving Accessibility Services
Amarillo City Transit is reviewing how it processes applications and determines eligibility for paratransit services, which are vital for residents with disabilities. The committee will learn about current intake procedures and how the city plans to improve services.
Visit Amarillo Strategic Planning and Tourism Initiatives
The board is working on its first multi-year strategic plan to guide local tourism and visitor experiences under 'The Long Trail' banner.
Budget Debate
Amarillo is holding a special City Council meeting this Tuesday to debate and hash out the upcoming financial plans. If you care about where your tax dollars go and how city services are funded, this is the meeting to watch.
Sex Offender Residency Ordinance Review
The council is examining local restrictions governing where registered sex offenders can live within the city.
City Manager Evaluation and Personnel Review
The city council conducted a lengthy closed-door evaluation of the City Manager's performance and employment status. Such reviews dictate leadership direction and administrative oversight for municipal operations.
Contract Renewals
Staff recommended moving from a rotational model to an enhanced single-source towing contract with improved performance standards.
Large-Scale Industrial Rezoning near Lakeside Drive
Over 355 acres of unplatted land were rezoned from agricultural to light industrial, opening the door for major industrial expansion in northeast Amarillo.
Town Square Alcohol Sales and Land Use
The commission considered changing zoning rules for the Town Square development to allow more flexibility in alcohol sales. The change permits up to four establishments selling alcohol to be located anywhere within the mixed-use buildings, removing the previous one-per-building limit. It also allows alcohol sales as an incidental part of other businesses, like virtual golf or pool halls.
New Housing Development Approval
Several areas were rezoned to allow for new housing. This includes areas for single-family homes, duplexes, and townhomes, aiming to increase housing diversity and accommodate growth in different parts of the city.
Real Property Acquisition
Amarillo City Council just approved a lease for Wonderland Amusement Park! This means the park's future is looking more secure, but we'll have to wait and see the exact details of the agreement.
Firefighters' Pension Fund Investments
The board reviewed the pension fund's $275 million portfolio, evaluating quarterly returns, asset allocations, and long-term financial stability to ensure future retirement security for Amarillo firefighters.
Wastewater Spill
Amarillo just had a massive 750,000-gallon wastewater spill near E. Amarillo Creek, forcing emergency repairs. It’s a messy situation that makes you wonder how well the city's aging infrastructure is actually holding up.
Friends of AJ Swope First Responders Memorial
Amarillo's City Council just approved a Ten Commandments monument on city property. This decision sparks debate about religious symbols in public spaces and what it means for the separation of church and state.
Summer Pool Season Review
Amarillo's City Council has decided to permanently close Southwest Pool and temporarily close Southeast Pool. This means fewer public swimming options for residents this summer.
Renaming East Park to Gabriel Chavez Park
Amarillo's park board is looking at the Wonderland amusement park lease. This could mean changes are coming to the popular spot, so keep an eye out for more info.
Police Department Recruitment
The city is moving forward with the hiring process for new police officers by finalizing the list of qualified candidates from the recent entrance exam.
Summer Pool Season Review
Good news, Amarillo! That Southwest Pool might not be closing down for the summer after all. City Council is reconsidering, so get ready to splash around.
Police Department Recruitment
Amarillo is getting closer to picking a new police chief! City leaders have cut the list down to three finalists. Soon, we'll know who will be leading our police force.
BPAAB Master Plan and Park Beautification
City staff updated the board on various park improvements, including slow-growing wildflower seeds at John Ward Park, a new Rose Garden partnership with Master Gardeners, and upcoming ribbon-cuttings for art pads and fitness courts.
Mobile Visitor Center RFP
Amarillo's putting out bids for contractors to handle property maintenance. This means sprucing up parks, fixing buildings, and general upkeep to keep the city looking good.
Actuarial Services and Administrative Payments
The board discussed proposals for actuarial services and payments to custodial and paying agents. These are routine administrative functions necessary for the fund's operation.
Animal Services Cost Recovery
The board reviewed how animal services are funded and whether fees cover the costs. This could influence future budget requests and service fees.
Parking Garage Security and Usage
As more people use the downtown parking garage, the city is looking at how to keep it safe and running smoothly. This is important for anyone who visits or works downtown.
Industrial Area Residential Infill
Amarillo's City Council is making moves to tackle the housing crunch! They've approved four new projects aimed at creating more affordable places for people to live.
TIRZ #1 Fiscal Oversight
Amarillo's City Council is backing BSA for state economic incentives. This move could be a game-changer, potentially bringing more jobs and boosting the local economy.
Departmental Operations and Updates
Residents can stay informed about the work being done by various public health departments, including animal management, environmental health, and nutrition programs.
Renaming of East Park
Amarillo might be closing down two older public pools this summer. This decision could mean less access to cool-off spots for residents, especially families looking for affordable summer activities.
Environmental Concerns (Power Plant)
A citizen group raised concerns about the environmental impact of a proposed large natural gas power plant, citing potential exceedances of air pollution standards and inadequate public notice.
Early Literacy Program Expansion
The '1000 Books Before Kindergarten' program is a key initiative to boost early reading skills. The board's discussion highlights the library's role in supporting childhood development and preparing young children for school.
Tobacco Settlement Fund Management
The committee examined reports related to the tobacco settlement funds, including an audit of expenditures and the annual cost report. These funds are often earmarked for specific public health initiatives.
Floodplain Development
Amarillo's Planning and Zoning Commission is updating its rules to avoid conflicts of interest. They also approved a new apartment complex, which could mean more housing but also more traffic headaches.
Governing Capacity and Council-Staff Relations
The council and staff discussed the challenges of short two-year terms, high public scrutiny, and the tendency to get bogged down in day-to-day operational complaints rather than high-level governance.
Route 66-Sixth Street Parking Regulations
The city updated zoning codes to exempt businesses in the Sixth Street Historic District from strict off-street parking requirements, protecting historic buildings and matching downtown rules.
Audit Committee Reform
The city is looking at how to better oversee its $570 million budget. The current Audit Committee only meets once a year, and the council wants to change that to ensure they have better, more frequent information on how tax money is being spent.
Airport Infrastructure Modernization
Get ready for some parking lot drama at Amarillo's Municipal Court! They're kicking off an infrastructure project, so expect detours and maybe some headaches. The good news? It's all about making things smoother for you in the long run.
Landfill Fire Investigation
Amarillo's mayor wants an outside team to investigate that recent landfill fire so we can figure out what happened and stop it from happening again. City leaders are gearing up to review the whole mess and tighten up safety measures.
Affordable Housing Funding
Good news for folks looking for affordable housing! Amarillo's City Council is tossing $80,000 towards a new Habitat for Humanity home. This means more families could get a shot at homeownership.
Streetscape Improvement Grant
Get ready for some road work, Amarillo! The city is kicking off street maintenance projects, so expect detours and plan for longer travel times. Stay informed to avoid getting stuck in traffic!
Public Safety Telecommunicators Recognition
Amarillo's emergency crews are running a major drill to practice for hazmat emergencies. The goal is to ensure they're ready to respond effectively to dangerous spills and protect the community.
Nonresident Internet Fees
The library board is considering removing fees for nonresidents to use public computers and Wi-Fi. This change is needed to meet new state accreditation standards for public libraries.
Amarillo Zoo lease agreement
The Amarillo City Council has approved a new lease for the Amarillo Zoo! This means changes are coming, but we're still waiting on the specifics about what it means for visitors and the animals.
Airport Demolition
Amarillo's old airport is getting the wrecking ball! City Council approved the demolition, and now everyone's wondering what will take its place. Could be a new park, housing, or something totally unexpected.
Review of Historic Design Standards
Board members briefly discussed potential future changes to the overall design rules for historic districts, following up on past discussions. This could affect future development and renovations in these areas.
Board Meeting Streaming
Amarillo City Council is making big moves! They're talking water deals with Fermi America and looking at the Herring Hotel project, which could totally change the city's landscape. Plus, some art might be coming your way.
Street Construction Funding
Get ready for smoother rides, Amarillo! The city just approved a massive $30 million plan to tackle those pesky potholes and upgrade our streets.