The Amarillo Economic Development Corporation (AEDC) board of directors convened this morning to discuss crucial amendments to the AEDC’s articles of incorporation ahead of the upcoming city council meeting on Tuesday, January 14. The primary focus of the meeting was to address adjustments to the AEDC’s operating structure, as well as to explore ways to increase transparency in its processes.
The meeting, which began with a public comment session, quickly transitioned into a closed executive session where board members deliberated on the proposed amendments. When the meeting was reopened to the public, AEDC Board Chair Alex Fairly encouraged the board to work collaboratively toward a version of the articles that would be ready for submission to the Amarillo City Council. The discussions resulted in one notable amendment: the removal of a 5% buffer on line item budgets, which had been part of the AEDC’s previous financial structure.
Legal Counsel Clarifies Process and Authority
AEDC’s legal counsel, John Atkins, was quick to clarify the board’s role in the amendment process. While the board can discuss and recommend changes, it does not hold the authority to approve the final versions of the articles. “This discussion is in response to the council’s request that the EDC develop articles that they’re comfortable with,” Atkins explained. “However, the process is led by the council. These are going to be restated articles adopted by the council.”
The clarification underlined that, despite the board’s significant involvement, the final decision-making power rests with the Amarillo City Council, which is expected to review the amended articles at its January 14 meeting.
Bylaw Reforms and New Transparency Measures
The board also touched upon potential revisions to the AEDC’s bylaws, focusing on increasing transparency and accountability. Board member Josh Craft, who also serves as a City Councilmember for Place 1, suggested including a requirement that an agenda packet—similar to those provided for Amarillo City Council meetings—be made available online for both the public and board members. He also proposed that AEDC’s website include a monthly expense report to further ensure transparency regarding the corporation’s financial activities.
In addition to these measures, Board member and City Councilmember for Place 2, Don Tipps, proposed a new bylaw requiring additional training for new board members. AEDC President and CEO Kevin Carter confirmed that all new members undergo a mandatory onboarding process, which includes training on the Texas Open Meetings Act, public information laws, and an overview of AEDC’s policies and procedures. Board members also have the opportunity to tour AEDC properties as part of their orientation.
Tipps expressed interest in reviewing the onboarding materials to ensure the training meets all necessary standards. This ongoing effort to refine the AEDC’s internal practices aims to bolster its governance and ensure that new members are fully prepared to serve in their roles.
Next Steps and Timeline for AEDC Reforms
The board has scheduled its next meeting for January 15 at 10 a.m. to continue reviewing the bylaws and potentially take further action. These bylaws are slated for presentation to the Amarillo City Council on January 28. In the meantime, the city council plans to review the amended articles at its meeting on January 14.
A significant development is the process of appointing new board members. Following the resignation of several previous members in November—after questions arose regarding AEDC’s spending policies—a pool of 55 applicants has come forward to be considered for the board. City Council is set to begin interviewing candidates and selecting new members for the board at its February 4 meeting.
A Focus on Transparency
As the AEDC moves forward with these reforms, one clear theme has emerged: a commitment to fostering greater transparency and accountability. The current interim board members, tasked with leading the AEDC through this transitional period, are determined to reshape the organization into a more open and accessible entity for Amarillo residents.
Board Chair Alex Fairly expressed his confidence in the direction the AEDC is heading. “We’re working hard to make sure that our processes reflect the expectations of the Amarillo community,” Fairly said. “The changes we’re discussing today are all part of that effort.”
With the proposed amendments to the articles of incorporation, the potential for greater transparency in the AEDC’s financial reporting, and the board’s plans to refine the onboarding process for future members, the Amarillo Economic Development Corporation is poised for significant transformation in the coming months. The public will have ample opportunities to weigh in on these changes, with several upcoming city council meetings and the AEDC’s future discussions.
As the AEDC prepares for these critical next steps, the focus remains on creating a more transparent, accountable, and community-driven organization that works in the best interests of Amarillo’s residents.
