Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Waco public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
43 issues with medium priority
Information Security Program and Risk Assessment Compliance
The board will consider adopting an Information Security Program and Risk Assessment to comply with federal Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act standards, protecting sensitive data and establishing corporate security policies.
Rising Images Delinquent Account Write-Offs
The board is reviewing a proposal to write off uncollected delinquent accounts across five housing communities: Raintree, Picadilly, Cimmaron, Hunnington, and Misty Square apartments. This housekeeping action helps clear uncollectible debt from the agency's financial ledgers.
Parks and Recreation Planning and Advisory
Staff will provide updates on fall athletic leagues, community center operations, pool fee structures, and major seasonal events like Waco Wonderland. These programs impact local recreation and community engagement.
Safe Haven Baby Boxes at Fire Stations
The council discussed the potential installation of Safe Haven Baby Boxes at Waco fire stations to provide safe infant surrender options.
Adoption of City Council Civility Pledge
Waco leaders adopted a formal resolution committing to maintain high standards of mutual respect, transparency, and civil discourse during public meetings and community interactions.
Groundwater Overpumping Settlement
McGregor's city council just agreed to a record $175,000 penalty because SpaceX overpumped groundwater at its testing facility. Since the city actually owns the site and the wells, local taxpayers are stuck with the bill, even though SpaceX has since reined in its water usage.
AJGA Waco Junior Open Incentive Request
The commission discussed a potential financial incentive to help bring the AJGA Waco Junior Open tournament to Waco in spring 2027.
Better Block Foundation Cole Avenue Placemaking
The board will consider investing up to $196,000 to bring in the Better Block Foundation to activate a city-owned property at 2423 Cole Avenue through community engagement and placemaking.
Jackson Avenue Sidewalk & Lighting Project
The board will consider a $900,000 investment to install new sidewalks and street lighting along Jackson Avenue from 3rd Street to 8th Street.
Bledsoe-Miller STEAM Center First-Year Operations
The newly opened Bledsoe-Miller STEAM Center recorded nearly 30,000 visitor visits in its first six months, providing free and low-cost educational programs for youth and families.
Visitor Economy Strategy
Waco is asking residents for ideas to boost tourism and support local businesses. If you want to help shape the city's future attractions, now's your chance to speak up at local meetings.
Personnel Appointment
Waco's got a new hire to make the city a more attractive spot for tourists and residents alike. This person's job is to brainstorm and implement ideas to boost Waco's appeal.
Expansion of Sober Living Housing in Sanger Heights
A rezoning request on North 18th Street sparked questions from neighbors regarding safety, oversight, and accountability for a proposed multi-unit sober living community. The applicant explained that the facility will provide structured, faith-based recovery housing in an area facing high demand.
Setback and Parking Variances for 920 Sherman Street
The property owner requested multiple variances for yard setbacks and parking to allow development at 920 Sherman Street. The board approved the request with conditions to ensure safety and neighborhood compatibility.
Historic Landmark Preservation Commission Membership Criteria
To address recurring quorum challenges, the city proposed expanding residency requirements for the Historic Landmark Preservation Commission to include people who work in Waco but live anywhere in McLennan County.
Commercial Rezoning for Waffle House on S. 7th Street
A 0.7-acre vacant parcel at 722 S. 7th Street was rezoned from office-residence to community commercial to clear the way for a new Waffle House location. The site sits near downtown amid mixed commercial and residential uses.
Student Housing Development
Big changes are coming to West Waco with a massive new housing development called West Lake Village. This project could significantly alter the neighborhood's landscape and population.
2026-2027 HUD Annual Action Plan Funding
The city is planning how to distribute federal HUD grants for housing, homelessness prevention, and community development for the upcoming year.
Council Leadership Transition
Waco's top city official, City Manager Bradley Ford, is stepping down in early 2026. This means the city will be looking for a new leader to run day-to-day operations at City Hall.
Voting Rights and Representation
Get ready for a potential shake-up in how Waco picks its city council and school board members! A court ruling is looking at how districts are drawn, and it could change who gets to represent you and your neighborhood.
Litter Enforcement
Tired of trash near the suspension bridge, especially after those 'tortilla tossing' events? Waco residents are pushing for real enforcement to keep the area clean, not just one-off cleanups.
wastewater discharge into Salado Creek
Get ready, Waco! Millions of gallons of treated wastewater might be heading into Salado Creek soon. A local couple is fighting back to keep the creek clean, especially with more housing planned.
Job Fair
Waco's city government is hosting a job fair to help residents find employment. It's a great opportunity to meet local businesses and explore new career paths.
Park Redevelopment
Get ready for a revamped Brazos River Riverwalk! It's closing down for a big upgrade, aiming to be finished by 2028. Expect a whole new look and feel for our riverfront.
Landfill Operations
Waco's getting a new landfill starting Monday, and the old one's closing this Saturday. This means you'll need to know the new spot for your trash disposal. Don't get caught with garbage on Saturday night!
Public Health Director Appointment
Waco has a new Public Health Director, and this appointment is a major move for the city's health programs. Get ready for potential shifts in how public health is managed!
Economic Development Hiring
Waco's got a new economic development chief! This hire is all about bringing more jobs and businesses to the city. Let's see what fresh ideas they bring to the table to make Waco boom.
Data Center Expansion
Waco is looking at a big data center expansion, but some folks are hitting the brakes. They're worried about the strain on our power and water, and whether this tech boom is worth the potential hit to our quality of life.
Fiscal Year 2024-2025 External Audit
External auditors briefed the committee on the upcoming annual financial audit and new accounting rules for vacation time.
Business Development Program
Waco's launching a new program to boost businesses along main streets. The goal is to improve storefronts and streetscapes, making commercial areas more attractive and potentially improving your daily commute.
Veteran Recognition and Public Projects
The Veterans Advisory Board is working on expanding recognition programs like the local banner project and proposing a new veteran recognition paver project to tie into the downtown riverwalk redevelopment.
Office Closure
Waco city offices are shutting down this Tuesday. Make sure to get your city business done beforehand or wait until Wednesday!
Brazos Higher Education Student Loan Note Program (2026-2028)
Brazos Higher Education Authority is seeking city approval for its upcoming tax-exempt bond issuances to fund affordable student gap loans for Texas families. City leaders reviewed the program's strong financial performance and confirmed that the bonds carry zero debt or financial liability for Waco taxpayers.
Criminal Charges Against City Employee
A Waco city employee is in hot water, facing multiple charges for allegedly assaulting three minors over several years. This raises some serious questions about who's watching out for our kids and how the city handles its employees.
Gaming Regulation
Waco is officially banning those 'eight-liner' gambling machines. City council made the call, so if you frequent these spots, your gaming days in Waco are numbered.
Airport Operations
Waco's airport is in a bind! A potential government shutdown could halt flights, and the city is scrambling to find new airlines to keep the planes in the air. Get ready for potential travel disruptions.
Water Bill Decrease
Waco residents, get ready for a pleasant surprise! Your water bills are set to decrease starting in January, offering some relief as other utility costs continue to rise. It's a welcome bit of good news for your household budget.
Food Truck Regulations
Waco's getting serious about food trucks in the new year. New regulations are coming in January, so if you love grabbing lunch from a mobile vendor, you'll want to know how this might change things.
Warrant Amnesty Event
Waco is holding a special Halloween event where you can clear old misdemeanor warrants without getting arrested. It's a chance to settle up with the law before the holiday fun begins.
Water Maintenance
Waco's tap water is getting a makeover, and it might taste or smell weird for about a month. The city's doing some necessary upkeep, so if you're picky about your water, you might want to grab some bottled stuff.
Solid Waste Transfer Station
Waco's got a shiny new solid waste transfer station, and it's a game-changer for getting rid of trash. Expect faster, smoother operations when you need to dispose of your waste.
Fireworks Ordinance
Waco is cracking down on fireworks within city limits. So, no more backyard pyrotechnics for holidays – it's all about safety and protecting pets.
Waste Schedule Change
Waco just shook up its curbside trash schedule and rolled out new yard-waste carts, meaning you'll want to double-check your pickup days before dragging your bins to the curb.