BRENHAM CITY COUNCIL TO DISCUSS COVID-19
The Brenham City Council will take up talks tomorrow (Thursday) on the ever-changing topic of COVID-19.
The situation surrounding the virus has changed immensely since the council first discussed the matter at its last meeting, with several city facilities shutting their doors, and Brenham ISD closing through April 3rd.
Both the city and Washington County have cancelled or rescheduled public meetings and events of ten or more people.
City Manager James Fisher said, while tomorrow’s council meeting will cover business as usual, the city is taking steps to limit the number of staff and visitors inside the council chambers during its meeting.
According to Fisher, the amount of staff at the meeting will be limited, with certain staff members being called to the chambers as needed. He said the city is looking at ways to meet electronically, and may explore that for future meetings.
City leadership has also requested that city employees cancel all non-essential business travel, city council meetings be held only one time per month on the third Thursday, and city advisory boards and commissions only meet when absolutely necessary.
At this time, city parks, trails, and other outdoor amenities will remain open and available to the public; however, as new information is received from health authorities, that could change.
Also in session, the council will consider:
- The development, operation and possible acquisition of the Barnhill Center, after meeting in executive session to discuss the matter. The council will also consult with the city attorney in executive session regarding an EEOC charge.
- Authorizing the acceptance of Phase II of public improvements in the Vintage Farms subdivision.
- Approval of a project to extend a six-inch gas main along North Blue Bell Road from East Alamo Street to Brown Street and related service contracts, including but not limited to: a professional services agreement with Hodde and Hodde Land Surveying, Inc. for topography surveying and general engineering services; and a small services agreement with G&M Innovations, LLC for boring services.
- An interlocal agreement between the city and Washington County related to economic development services. The agreement, which was approved by Washington County Commissioners at their meeting Tuesday, will allow city officials—in this case, Brenham Economic Development Director Susan Cates—to meet with commissioners in executive session.
- A resolution in connection with a grant agreement for an Airport Layout Plan update and narrative for the Brenham Municipal Airport.
- A professional services agreement with Strand Associates, Inc., related to the Burleson Street utility extensions.
- Supplemental items to the professional services agreements with Gunda Corporation, LLC related to the raw water intake repair at Lake Somerville, the Burleson Road culvert replacement project, and storm damage repairs.
- A resolution amending the city’s financial policies document by adding a procurement policy for federal grants and agreements.
- A resolution amending the City of Brenham Human Resources policy manual.
The council will meet tomorrow afternoon at 1 p.m., at Brenham City Hall.