Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in New Braunfels public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
13 issues in public safety with high priority
Firefighter Drug Use Disqualification Guidelines
The commission is reviewing proposed clarifications regarding drug use disqualifications for entry-level firefighter applicants.
Police Officer Psychological Examination Standards
The commission will consider updates to the psychological exam parameters for beginning police officers to ensure proper screening for candidates.
Automated License Plate Reader Program
Police Chief Flores presented 2025 crime stats showing a 5% overall crime reduction and discussed independent third-party audits verifying strict privacy compliance for License Plate Readers.
Lake Front Avenue Speed Limit
Residents near Lake Front Avenue raised concerns about dangerous speeding and pedestrian safety issues. The board responded by recommending a speed limit reduction to 25 mph.
School Resource Officer Staffing
Residents and council members discussed the adequacy of school resource officer coverage across local school campuses, with police leadership detailing rovers and dedicated staffing agreements with NBISD.
Police Officer Disciplinary Appeal
A police officer is appealing their indefinite suspension. This process is a standard legal requirement for civil service employees.
Airport Safety and Communications
Council members and residents discussed airport safety, including intermittent ground radio lines and military flight deconfliction with Randolph Air Force Base.
Public Safety Personnel Testing and Certification
The Civil Service Commission certified a new promotional list for Deputy Chief and called for entry-level exams for both police officers and firefighters to ensure fully staffed emergency services.
Public Safety Training Facility
The city is moving forward with a feasibility study to co-locate police and fire training facilities, aiming to improve coordination, training capabilities, and long-term cost efficiency.
Landa RV Resort Litigation
The city is discussing legal matters and potential settlement offers regarding the Landa RV Resort.
Police Department Staffing and Public Safety Funding
Citizens debated police staffing levels, officer pay, and whether to pursue a Crime Control and Prevention District (CCPD) sales tax or rely on existing general fund allocations amid rapid city growth.
Mental Health Crisis Response
The city is looking to embed mental health experts in the 911 dispatch center to help de-escalate crises and free up police officers for other duties.
Y.C. Partners Ltd. Litigation
The council reviewed the status of a long-running legal case involving the city and the Yantis Company.