City Council Recap | July 21, 2026

Public Forum:

• David Springfield, representing the Freedom Fest/Fireworks Committee, recognized a couple outstanding volunteers whose dedication has helped keep Runaway Bay’s Freedom Fest and annual fireworks show a community tradition. David explained that after the Greater Runaway Bay Alliance (GRBA) was no longer able to fundraise for the fireworks, a group of dedicated volunteers came together to continue the tradition. He presented a special recognition to Ken Kilpatrick for his tireless efforts in securing donations to fund the annual fireworks show. He also recognized Council Member Richard Griffin, and his wife Karen, for generously volunteering his musical talents as the event announcer and entertainer for many years.

  
  
  

  

Consent Items

• Minutes from June 16, 2026 Regular Session – APPROVED

  
  

Consideration and Action Items

• June 30, 2026 accounts payable report – ACCEPTED

• June 2026 financial report – POSTPONED

  • Report needs correction and will be considered on next agenda.

• Task Authorization No. 1 – Water and Wastewater Masterplan – POSTPONED

  • Council tabled consideration to allow for additional review before moving forward.

  • The master plan will evaluate the City’s current water and wastewater systems, forecast future demand, identify capacity needs, and help prioritize infrastructure improvements to support continued growth.

• Fundview Software subscription agreement – APPROVED

  • Fundview is a municipal financial management software designed specifically for local governments. The City’s current financial software is outdated and creating operational challenges. Fundview will modernize financial management by providing modules for utilities, payroll, accounting, service orders, budgeting, and reporting. The software also provides real-time financial information and is expected to reduce effort and improve efficiency.  It was discussed that Mayor White negotiated the waiver of startup costs, resulting in significant savings.

• Roddy Boston Quarterly Report

  
  

  

  
  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  
  

  • Reported that the wastewater treatment system is operating at 23.5% of its permitted capacity. He also noted that recent rainfall has been beneficial, and that the City’s overall water quality continues to remain in good condition.

  • Reviewed an equipment failure that occurred on July 8 at the wastewater treatment plant involved the sludge system’s galvanized steel air lines. Public Works crews replaced the damaged galvanized lines with stainless steel air lines, improving the system’s durability. Repairs were completed quickly, and the plant was back in operation by July 10. Roddy thanked local businesses Standard Energy, New Tex Trucking and the Volunteer Fire Department for their assistance.

  • Council discussed the July 11 water main break, which required the City to issue a Boil Water Notice in accordance with Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regulations. For additional context:A boil water notice is not issued because the water is known to be contaminated. Instead, it is a precautionary measure required by TCEQ whenever there is a loss of water pressure or certain other events that could potentially affect water quality. During a boil water notice, residents should bring water to a rolling boil for two minutes before using it for drinking and other human consumption. The notice remained in effect until laboratory testing confirmed the water was safe on July 15.

  • Residents may see water flowing from fire hydrants as Public Works crews flush the distribution system. Flushing removes sediment, restores disinfectant levels, and helps return the system to normal operating conditions. Several dead-end water mains require extended flushing to ensure water quality throughout the system.

• Cemetery Board memorial brick fundraiser – APPROVED

  • Eternal Oaks Commemorative Brick Garden is a fundraiser that will allow residents to honor loved ones with engraved memorial bricks while supporting future improvements to the cemetery.

  • Each engraved brick will measure 4” × 8”, accommodate up to four lines of personalized text, and will be available for $100.

  • Cemetery initiatives include:

    • Irrigation repairs and expansion

    • Gazebo construction

    • Butterfly Garden improvements

    • Cemetery registration and signage

    • Expansion planning

    • Continued beautification efforts

  • To improve accessibility for residents, Eternal Oaks Cemetery will soon be added to the City’s website. The cemetery’s address, 815 Port O Call Drive, is also currently being verified with Google Maps to make it easier for families and visitors to locate the cemetery.

  • Additional information on ordering commemorative bricks, including personalization options, will be shared once the program officially launches.

    
    

Updates from Mayor and City Council

• Phil Reicheneker | Parks and Recreation

  • Current projects include:

    • Delaying new sod installation until more favorable conditions.

    • Installing a backflow prevention valve at the baseball field.

    • New lighting at the basketball court in Cricket Ridge Park.

    • Expressed his appreciation to the Parks & Rec volunteers who helped make Freedom Fest a success, including helping with activities such as the dunk tank and turtle races.

• Richard Griffin | Economic Development Corporation

  • Reported that the terms of the EDC Board members had expired and that all current members have been reappointed to continue serving.

  • He also shared that the EDC continues to look for property available for future economic development opportunities and is actively seeking donations to support its initiatives.

• Steve Holt | Greater Runaway Bay Alliance

  • Residents are invited to attend the Back-to-School Splash Party on Tuesday, July 28, from 5:00–8:00 p.m. at the Runaway Bay City Pool. Admission is free, and attendees are encouraged to bring a classroom supply donation to help support local teachers. Hot dogs, snacks, and drinks will also be available for purchase.

  • Carter BloodCare Blood Drive will take place on Tuesday, August 4, from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Norma Coble Civic Center. Everyone who is eligible is encouraged to consider donating blood to help support area hospitals and patients in need.

    

    

• Steve Reynolds

  • Police Department

    • 69 warnings

    • 37 citations

    • 15 animal controls

    • 1 arrest

  • Fire Department Calls

    • 18 medical

    • 16 lift assists

    • 4 fire investigations

    • 1 stranded boater rescue

• Mayor Herman White

  • Mayor White expressed his appreciation to the many volunteers, organizations and first responders who helped make this year’s Freedom Fest a success. He highlighted the strong community response to several new attractions, including the Dunk Tank and Fun Jail. He praised the Greater Runaway Bay Alliance’s Patriotic Golf Cart Parade, noting the tremendous participation from both decorated golf carts and spectators. The Mayor also shared that the City remains in a strong financial position as work begins on the next fiscal year. He encouraged residents to stay engaged.

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