Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in The Colony public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
8 issues in taxes budget with medium priority
City Facility Energy Upgrades (Schneider Electric)
Council directed staff toward a $50,000 detailed energy audit with Schneider Electric. The company projects $80,000-$100,000 in annual utility savings that could fund $4-5 million in lighting, HVAC, and controls upgrades over 20 years — with savings guaranteed by the contractor.
Grandscape PID Annual Assessment
Businesses inside Grandscape will pay $980,616.89 in special assessments next year to fund enhanced police, traffic, and maintenance services — residents don't pay this. A public hearing is set for September 15.
Fleet Division Budget Shortfall
Rising fuel and vehicle maintenance costs forced a mid-year $300,000 transfer from the general fund's contingency to the Public Works Fleet Division — a sign of inflation pressures on basic city services.
Nonprofit facility lease rates
The Chamber, American Legion and Community Theater have paid $150/month for years. Council set a new rate of $1 per square foot or $150 minimum, whichever is greater, with a reevaluation in a year — a modest bump meant to recoup some utility costs without pricing out the nonprofits.
Bond issuance and special session scheduling
Staff was to update the board on bond issuance timing and dates for special sessions. The bond proceeds fund the new recreation center, athletic fields, and other voter-approved park projects, and the City Council must also vote after the CDC's special sessions.
Public Works screening wall scope change
The city will swap a planned $485,000 masonry wall for a $62,603 chain-link fence at the Public Works yard, saving about $422,000 that returns to fund balance. The wastewater plant and Fire Station 2 lot are excluded because the wall would conflict with plant construction.
2026 City Council Budget Retreat
The council is planning its budget retreat for a Saturday in June at City Hall — timed so budget talks happen before the July 1 homestead exemption deadline.
FY2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report
The city's books got a clean bill of health: an unmodified audit opinion, $26.3 million in unassigned fund balance, and only three minor audit adjustments — down significantly from last year.