Council discusses parks, chamber and policies at council meeting

Several parks issues – including repairs at the municipal swimming pool – were discussed Monday by the Houston City Council.

Robbie Mortensen, parks and recreation director, presented a handout outlining the year's events and requirements for various parks and recreation programs. He highlighted the need for additional field and court space, as well as ongoing issues at the pool. He explained that due to an acid pump failure, the Friday before the pool opened, it was completely drained and refilled. This issue caused a closure on Tuesday, but the water department helped replace a pump to make the pool functional. The chlorine levels have remained low due to a minor leak, but the part to fix it will soon be installed.

The golf course also required attention, with problems related to the watering system and the need for additional staff. The council discussed the management of the golf course, considering the option of hiring a full-time director. Additional golf membership was noted, and it was suggested to explore partnerships with local educational institutions or programs to address staffing needs.

Overall, the board's sentiment was that Mortensen has done an excellent job as director considering the current circumstances of parks and recreation.

Kristie Miller, chamber of commerce treasurer, discussed issues regarding the chamber ballpark meter and usage agreement. The council decided to pay the past-due balance, keep ownership with the city and redirect the bill to a chamber post office box.

Additionally, Miller confirmed that the Public Water Supply District 3 moved out of the chamber building, and asserted this would be better for the chamber, suggesting back-due utilities be charged to the water district.

COUNCIL

Miller said the chamber will host a fireworks show July 1, with $4,000 budgeted from the city, and an additional $2,000 from the chamber. Next year, she would like for the chamber to match the budgeted amount in contributions.

Before signing any contracts with the chamber, it was determined that the new city attorney should review them, since he was not in place when they were written.

The council discussed insurance coverage and the employee handbook. Concerns were raised about the lack of clarity in writing regarding spousal coverage. A motion was passed to remove the lines discriminating against coverage for those with spouses who can receive insurance at their workplace. The council asserted that nothing has changed about the insurance plan, only the broker.

The council explored possibilities for economic development and marketing initiatives. The budget was discussed, and ideas were proposed for utilizing remaining funds – approximately $30,000 – to hire a marketing agency or provide temporary staffing support. In the future, they would like to share a full-time economic developer with the chamber and the Industrial Development Authority.

In other matters:

At 8:04 p.m., the council adjourned into closed session.