The Horseshoe Bay City Council meeting was called to order by Mayor Cynthia Clinesmith with a quorum present. Because the restrictions related to COVID-19 remain in place, the City Council meeting was closed to the public. Members of the public were able to participate by listening to the meeting via telephone. The meeting was recorded and uploaded to the City’s website following the conclusion of the meeting. The recording is available on the Agenda’s & Minutes page of the City’s website.
Mayor Clinesmith asked for a moment of silent prayer for our community and decision guidance. The meeting then moved forward with Fire Chief Brent Batla presenting a feasibility study regarding a fire boat. The presentation addressed several issues including a Risk Profile, Incident History between January 2017 to the present, Response Time Analysis, Deployment Analysis, Staffing Analysis, Current and Alternate Funding, Annual Associated Cost, and Recommendations. The presentation provided in-depth information to be considered in determining the need and cost effectiveness of purchasing a Fire Boat for the HSB Fire Department. Chief Batla recommended making a single boat purchase that would serve the needs of both the Fire and Police Departments within the next three years when the current Police boat needs to be replaced. Instead of a boat for both departments, there would be one boat shared under a joint operation concept saving considerable money for the taxpayer. The Council discussed the possibility posed with both Fire Chief Batla and Police Chief Rocky Wardlow. A single boat purchase, to meet the needs of both the Fire and Police Departments, could be an appropriate solution – allowing for shared staff deployment for any lake-based emergency. The Council will take up this recommendation during budget planning this summer.
City Manager Stan Farmer reported that the road sealcoating project near the Highlands area is on schedule with the fourth stage to be complete Wednesday, May 20, 2020. He also indicated that The Hills area roads were chipsealed today and that all projects have been completed under budget. Stan also shared that spring mowing will start Tuesday with a goal to be completed by July 4. There will be eight crews working, moving from west to east, starting in HSB West.
Our beautiful May flowers and sunshine are ushering in a wonderful season of special holidays and weekend visits from families and friends. Take care of yourself and others by following the safe practices that are recommended for all of us. Wishing you well
