The Amarillo City Council held its final regular meeting at the current City Hall on Tuesday, tackling major funding decisions for parks, public safety, and city infrastructure. The meeting largely focused on approving debt issuance for fire department equipment and discussing potential investments in local parks.
Economic Development Update Postponed
A scheduled presentation from the Amarillo Economic Development Corporation (AEDC), along with an update from board chair Alex Fairly, was postponed as Fairly was unable to attend. A special meeting is expected next week to cover these topics.
Fire Department Secures $12.3 Million for Equipment
One of the biggest items on the agenda was the approval of $12.35 million in debt issuance to the Bank of Oklahoma to purchase six fire engines and two ladder trucks, including all necessary equipment and warranties. The council unanimously approved the measure, ensuring that Amarillo’s firefighters will have updated vehicles to improve emergency response capabilities.
Lighting, Parking, and Park Renovations Considered
The council also reviewed several park improvement projects that could be funded through certificates of obligation (COs).
$4 million was proposed for new lighting at Thompson Park
$2.5 million for lighting at John Stiff Park
Just under $1 million for Memorial Park lighting upgrades
$3.5 million for parking lot improvements at John Stiff Park (north and south) and a portion of Rick Klein Park
A $400,000 renovation proposal for the gazebo at Sam Houston Memorial Park raised follow-up questions from council members, while a $1 million+ proposal to replace four water pumps at Ross Rogers and Comanche Trail golf courses was also discussed.
Fleet Replacement: $19 Million Needed, $4 Million Proposed
Amarillo’s aging city fleet also took center stage. While the total need for fleet replacement sits at $19 million, the city only proposed replacing 31 vehicles totaling just under $4 million.
Solid Waste: $2.02 million (Loaders, forklifts, grapple loaders)
Police: $245,000 (Seven new motorcycles, two years past their lifespan)
Street Department: $896,000 (Dump truck, mowers, front loaders, motor grader)
Parks & Golf: $702,000 (Mowers, front loader, tractor)
Assistant City Manager & Chief Financial Officer Laura Storrs emphasized the importance of these replacements. "We spend a lot on repairs and maintenance for aging trash trucks and street equipment. Additionally, we are past due on replacing about half of our police motorcycles, which are critical for our officers," Storrs said.
Community Notice Issued for Funding Proposals
Before making final decisions, the city council approved a plan to notify the community over the next two weeks about the funding proposals. The discussion will continue at the April 8th council meeting.
Security Funding for Transformation Park Delayed
The council chose to delay a $250,000 approval for enhanced security features at Transformation Park, requesting more information before voting.
