Watauga · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Watauga, TX public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Open Rewards shop-local program relaunch
Mayor Miner flagged complaints that the city's Open Rewards program is hard to use and wants the board to consider switching to a simpler cash-based rebate, possibly capped at $100 like other cities.
U.S. Department of Labor settlement
The council met privately with the city attorney about correspondence from the U.S. Department of Labor and took no action afterward.
State legislative impacts on city budgets
The mayor wants a citizen engagement committee to explain how Austin's bills — from unfunded mandates to property tax overhaul — could force cuts to city services. Council members argued over whether citizens or elected officials should front the effort.
New artificial intelligence and personnel policies
The city added a first-of-its-kind AI use policy to its employee handbook and updated leave, compensation, and safety rules — one piece (travel reimbursement) was pulled after being included by mistake.
FY2026-2027 Proposed Budget public hearing
The Council set August 10 at 6:30 p.m. for residents to weigh in on the proposed city budget before adoption.
Staffing and Reimbursement Agreement
The EDC will pay the city's general fund $355,920 to cover the staff time city employees spend on EDC work, plus shares of audit, codification, and mowing costs. It runs from October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2027.
American Rescue Plan Act spending wrap-up
The city spent its roughly $6 million in federal pandemic relief on water and sewer fixes, stormwater drainage, restored staff positions, and police equipment. Big takeaways: the Summertime Lane water project wraps up by early July, and the Park Vista culvert came in $184,000 under budget.
Possible 2027 bond election for animal shelter
Staff proposed skipping new debt in 2026, doing a cash defeasance (saving ~$111,000), then potentially asking voters in 2027 to fund a $10 million animal shelter, with library and police facility bonds in later years.
Annual audit results
The fiscal 2025 audit shows the EDC's finances in good shape — $3.3 million in the operating fund, up $441,000, helped by strong interest earnings even though sales tax fell short of projections.
Tarrant County HOME Program renewal for homeowner repairs
Watauga renewed its spot in Tarrant County's HOME grant program, which helps eligible homeowners pay for major repairs like plumbing, roofing, and wheelchair ramps. The city hasn't spent its allocated match, so staff are encouraging more qualifying residents to apply.
30% collection fee on delinquent utility and EMS accounts
When a utility or EMS bill goes to a third-party collection agency, the customer will now owe an extra 30% on top. The city already pays that fee to the agency; this shifts the cost to the delinquent customer. Payment plans arranged before collections avoid the fee.