WATCH: Amarillo City Council meeting for 1-14-2025

The Amarillo City Council will convene Tuesday at 3 p.m. in the Council Chamber at City Hall for a meeting packed with critical updates and community discussions. Public comment is available by signing up online, calling the City Secretary’s office at 806-378-3014, or in person at least 15 minutes before the meeting starts.

The meeting agenda includes updates on the development of Transformation Park, reports on community partnerships, and a $275,000 outreach donation from Buc-ee’s. Additionally, council members will review multiple rezoning ordinances, budget amendments, and codification of Proposition E into the city charter.

Transformation Park: A Community Support Hub in Development

Originally announced in December 2022, Transformation Park is envisioned as a comprehensive resource for Amarillo’s vulnerable populations. The facility will house a drop-in shelter, day room, pallet home community, and commercial kitchen. It will also become the new home for the Guyon Saunders Resource Center. Despite ongoing construction, the site began providing meal services in late 2024.

Codifying Proposition E

One major agenda item is the adoption of Proposition E, approved by voters in November 2024. The measure changes how city council vacancies are handled, allowing the council to appoint replacements when a position becomes vacant with less than 12 months remaining in a term. Proposition E also introduces a “resign to run” rule, requiring officials to vacate their current position if they declare candidacy for a different office.

Economic Development and Board Adjustments

The council will also discuss amendments to the Amarillo Economic Development Corporation’s (EDC) Articles of Incorporation. Recent friction between the city council and the EDC led to the appointment of temporary board members following several resignations last November. The proposed amendments, prepared by attorney George Hyde, are part of ongoing efforts to refine governance and oversight of the EDC.

Key non-consent items include the approval of a Location Incentive Agreement with AAA Cooper Transportation, a real estate sale on Benchmark Street, and a Memorandum of Understanding with BNSF Railway for constructing a new highway overpass at NE 24th Avenue.

Looking Ahead

With a wide range of critical items on the agenda, the city council aims to address community needs, strengthen governance, and promote economic growth. Community members are encouraged to attend or share their input on these pressing matters.