August Horst Park goes to the dogs

August Horst Park on Navasota’s west side became a little more pet friendly after council approved the installation of a dog park at the Monday, Aug. 23, meeting. Also contained in the motion, was the use of $15,661.90 from the Voluntary Park Fund to cover the cost of fencing, dog watering stations, pavers, sand, landscape cloth, signs, two dog waste stations and two benches. The $1 per month Voluntary Park Fund donation is an option on utility customer’s monthly bill.

The dog park will be located near the old pro shop and consist of a fenced area of 100 x 100 feet, divided into two 50 x 50-foot sections, providing separate areas for large and small dogs.

No change to tax rate

After reviewing the 2021 Assessment Roll Grand Totals Reports issued by the Grimes Central Appraisal District, council approved Finance Director Lance Hall’s recommendation to adopt a tax rate of $0.5693 per $100 valuation and set public hearing dates.

Per the report, total taxable value for the City of Navasota is $508,297,370, an increase of 7.29% over 2020. At the proposed tax rate of $0.5693/$100 (the same as the current rate), the estimated tax to be collected is $2,893,736.93, approximately $89,000 more than last year.

The “No New Revenue” tax rate for 2021, or the tax rate which would provide the City with about the same revenue it received last year on properties taxed in both years, is $0.5510 per $100 valuation.

The “Voter Approved” tax rate, or the maximum tax rate allowed by law without voter approval through an election, is $0.5948 per $100 valuation.

Taxes based on last year’s average home price of $136,492 are $777.05 at the proposed rate.

While only one public hearing is required, the City of Navasota will hold two. The first public hearing and first reading to adopt the tax rate is Sept. 13 followed by the second public hearing and second reading Sept. 27. All hearings begin at 6 p.m. in council chambers at 200 E. McAlpine Street.

Budget workshop update

According to Hall, the proposed budget is $35,637,615. Responding to increases in the Consumer Price Index and the Municipal Cost Index in excess of 5%, a 5.63% increase in utility rates is being proposed.

Equipment purchases include a tractor, mower, jet rig, backhoe, dozer, vac truck, sweeper and fire truck.

A 3% cost of living adjustment for city employees has been added, but a potential new budget item is a salary classification survey.

City Manager Brad Stafford said, “I think it’s time we look into that so we can remain competitive. We’ve had a lot of turnover in a lot of positions and I think it would help us with that.”

Public improvements warranties

After a public hearing with no comments against, council approved the first reading of Ordinance No. 974-21, amending Chapter 14 Zoning, to add public improvement warranty provisions.

In another agenda item, council approved Ordinance No. 973-21, amending Chapter 13 Utilities, adopting warranty regulations.

Diosdado added, “It basically removes any loopholes that could exist. When public infrastructure like water mains and fire hydrants are installed, it allows us to have that warranty backing for 1-year for any issues.”

West side annexation approved

After a public hearing with no comments against, council approved the first reading of Ordinance No. 972-21 regarding Paul Hammock’s voluntary annexation request of a 42.381-acre tract adjacent to Pecan Lakes Estates Subdivision off SH 105.

Other council action:

•Approved acceptance of the School Resource Officer contract with Navasota Independent School District.

•Approved Resolution No. 699-21, nominating Kathleen Terrell to serve on Grimes Central Appraisal District board of directors.

•Approved the Consent Agenda which included the second reading of Ordinance No. 969-21, a zoning change request; second reading of Ordinance No. 970-21, conditional use permit application; and second reading of Ordinance No. 971-21, vacating an alleyway.

Reports from City staff or City officials:

•Recognized Jessie West for 15 years of service.

•Recognized Utility Administrative Assistant, Jennifer Reyna, as a graduate of the Texas Municipal Clerks Certification Program.

•Received a report about the Disc Golf Course grand opening and ribbon cutting Sunday, Aug. 22, at August Horst Park from Parks & Recreation board member B.J. Moody. Parks & Recreation Specialist Colton Haffey announced the board has two vacancies to fill.

•Received board and commission reports from council members Bernie Gessner and Pattie Pederson.

•Mayor Bert Miller announced Navasota Rattlers first non-district game is Friday, Aug. 27, at Wharton.

View city council meetings in their entirety at www.navasotatx.gov/city-council/pages/meeting-videos,