Search this site
84 results found with an empty search
- City Council Meeting Recap | September 16, 2026 | Public Hearing & Special Session
Public Hearings: Council held two public hearings regarding the proposed 2026-2027 tax rate and the proposed 2026-2027 budget. No one spoke during either public hearing. Public Forum: Bethann Richard with Heart of Town Community Clinic in Jacksboro spoke about its mission to provide free medical services to uninsured and underinsured members of the community. She also mentioned their upcoming Breakfast at Tiffany’s fundraiser on Saturday, October 3 from 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the Runaway Bay Event Center. Consent Items A. Consider minutes from August 19, 2026, Regular Session - APPROVED B. Consider minutes from September 8, 2026, Special Session – APPROVED Consideration & Action Items A. Consider August 31, 2026, accounts payable report – ACCEPTED Council Member Steve Holt noted that the $25,000 for the Fire Department is an annual donation from the City. B. Consider August 2026 financial report – ACCEPTED C. Consider Ordinance No. 642, amending the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget – APPROVED Holt commended City staff for their work on the budget amendments. Staff met twice in Special Session and went through the budget line by line. Holt noted that much of the City’s revenue comes from property taxes and water revenue. D. Consider Ordinance No. 643, adopting the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Tax Rate – APPROVED The City worked with Wise County to determine projected revenue and considered debt associated with grant-funded projects and improvements to water facilities. The adopted tax rate is $0.447977 per $100 of taxable value, a slight increase from last year. Holt explained the increase averages approximately $125.65 per year on a $300,000 home. E. Consider Ordinance No. 644, adopting the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Budget – APPROVED F. Consider moving Smoke On The Water (SOTW) funds from the EDC budget back into the Fireworks budget – APPROVED After accounting issues were resolved, funds from the SOTW event that had been placed in the EDC budget were moved back because they are earmarked for the Fireworks budget. Updates from Mayor & City Council Phil Reicheneker | Parks & Recreation: Phil reported on a productive Parks & Recreation meeting. Discussions are continuing about mounting the City Park sign at the park and signage along Highway 380. He also noted that the City pool is leaking, and a request has been made to the EDC regarding the issue. Richard Griffin | EDC: Richard reported that Ken Kilpatrick reapplied to serve on the EDC and was approved. The EDC is also continuing discussions regarding the possible purchase of real estate for commercial use. Chris Petty | Fire Department: Chris reminded everyone about the upcoming RBVFD Fish Fry and gun raffle, as well as the donation boot benefiting former Fire Chief Joey Highfill. The 10th Annual Fish Fry is Saturday, September 26 from 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. at the Runaway Bay Event Center. Enjoy live country music by Dr. Dan and the Toothaches and participate in their silent auction. The Fire Department responded to 25 calls during the month: 7 fire calls 14 medical calls 2 assists 2 miscellaneous calls Chris noted that the number of fire calls is a concern and reminded everyone that the Burn Ban remains in effect. Chief Steve Reynolds | Police Department: Steve reported the Police Department’s monthly activity: 34 citations 64 warnings 15 code enforcement calls 15 Fire Department assists 14 agency assists 7 animal control calls He also shared that Officer Bragg is back and is currently assisting with code enforcement as he works toward returning to full duty. Steve Holt | Greater Runaway Bay Alliance: Steve reported that the GRBA community trash cleanup has been postponed because the bluebonnet seeds, which will be dispersed during the cleanup, are delayed. Delivery is anticipated in October, and a new cleanup date will be announced soon. He also shared that GRBA is contributing silent auction baskets to the upcoming Fire Department Fish Fry. Mayor Herman White: Mayor White shared that crews are expected to mobilize this week and begin work on the chlorine building. He thanked Barry Schimpf, Ryan Halligan, Roddy Boston and Richard Griffin for their work throughout the process. He also discussed the upcoming bid advertisement for improvements to two of the City’s lift stations, which will be published in the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. Mayor White noted that the bid package is approximately 500 pages, emphasizing the amount of work involved before construction can begin. He said residents should begin seeing these grant-funded projects move forward. Mayor White also provided an update on the cleanup of the fire-damaged property on Tryall Drive. He explained that the property had become a complicated situation involving back taxes, a lien against the property, condemnation, and approximately $15,000 in fees. With no equity remaining in the property, along with other legal and personal circumstances affecting the owner, there was essentially no financial path forward for the owner to resolve the property on her own. The City was eventually able to reach an agreement with the owner. The deed was transferred to the City in exchange for addressing the outstanding back-tax obligation, allowing the property to finally move forward and releasing the former owner from the situation. Runaway Bay resident Tim Liberto then took on the property with the agreement that he would be responsible for cleaning it up. Residents have likely already noticed how quickly the property has been cleared and the longtime eyesore removed. Mayor White emphasized that getting to this point took cooperation from several people and described the outcome as a team effort and God’s work. Executive Session Council convened into Executive Session under Texas Government Code Section 551.072 to discuss matters related to real property. After returning to open session, Council made a motion to ratify WCAD 771915. The motion was APPROVED.
- Boil Water Notice Rescinded – Unit 6
The City of Runaway Bay has officially rescinded the Boil Water Notice for Unit 6, effective September 3, 2026. The public water system has completed the necessary corrective actions, and laboratory test results provided to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) confirm that the water no longer requires boiling prior to drinking or human consumption. Residents in Unit 6 may resume normal water use. For questions, please contact City Hall at 940-575-4745.
- City Council Meeting Recap | August 19, 2026
Public Forum: No residents signed up to speak during Public Forum Consent Items A. Minutes from July 21, 2026, Regular Session – APPROVED Consideration & Action Items A. June 2026 financial report – ACCEPTED B. July 31, 2026, accounts payable report – ACCEPTED C. July 2026 financial report – ACCEPTED D. Carolyn Dent’s application to serve on Cemetery Board – APPROVED Barry Schimpf and Carolyn Moody spoke in support of the appointment, noting her decades of service to Runaway Bay. E. Task Authorization #1 with Freese and Nichols (FNI) for the Water and Wastewater Master Plan, CIP, and Rate Study, using USACE funding – APPROVED Not to exceed $418,000 (using USACE funding) and is expected to take approximately 14 months. The study will take a comprehensive look at the City’s water and wastewater systems to identify problems, prioritize improvements and create a roadmap for future infrastructure needs. This includes: Testing water pressure and fire hydrant flow identifying areas of improvement Evaluating water lines, pumps and overall system capacity Identifying wastewater system problem areas and needed improvements Planning for future water and wastewater needs as the City grows Creating a Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) that prioritizes projects and estimated costs Completing a rate study to evaluate current rates, future expenses and long-term infrastructure needs F. Freese and Nichols Update A significant part of the discussion focused on why progress can take time. FNI acknowledged that navigating EPA funding and procurement requirements has been a learning curve and has taken longer than anticipated. Required federal environmental review and NEPA documentation are required before certain projects can move forward. FNI is working with USACE to obtain clarifications on those requirements with the goal of making the documentation process more efficient and keeping projects moving forward. Updates from Mayor and Council Phil Reicheneker | Parks and Recreation Discussed the possibility of forming a Runaway Bay Youth Sports Association Improvements continue at Liberto Ballfield Runaway Bay Bombers 14U softball team has begun using the fields New signage is being planned for City Park and Ballfield Richard Griffin | EDC Correspondence sent to Dollar General encouraging consideration of Runaway Bay for future retail space Consider Civic Center improvements: retaining wall repairs, concrete work, and handrails Carolyn Moody | Cemetery First memorial bricks are planned for installation by October 10 A thank-you picnic is being planned in appreciation for the Garden Club Highway signage for Eternal Oak Cemetery has been purchased for Hwy. 380, along with a City sign for the roundabout Monarch Butterfly Waystation approved Adding the Cemetery to the City’s official website Welcomed Carolyn Dent to the board, and thanked Rod Holmes for his service Christopher Petty | Fire Department 33 calls 5 fire 28 medical Fish Fry & Gun Raffle | September 26 | 5-8 | Runaway Bay Event Center Chief Steve Reynolds | Police Department 29 citations 63 warnings 24 code violations 30 officer assists 1 felony arrest Addressed Flock cameras and the changes to the company’s policies. Video footage is now retained for 7 days instead of 30, and searches require an open case. Despite past instances of misuse, Flock cameras remain a valuable law enforcement tool and deterrent to criminal activity. Provided a recent example of the arrest of a murder suspect in Decatur using Flock technology. Steve Holt | Greater Runaway Bay Alliance Trash Clean-Up | September 12 | 9AM | Civic Center Approved to disperse bluebonnet seeds Mayor Herman White Discussed the monthly financial reports and challenges with reconciling financial information as state reporting requirements have increased over the years. Runaway Bay is not alone in experiencing these issues, with other cities facing similar challenges. The City’s new FundView software is expected to provide more current budget information in a more timely manner. Shared takeaways from the recent Wise County Mayors Dinner and emphasized how fortunate Runaway Bay has been in securing significant federal funding for infrastructure. Recognized Freese and Nichols and specifically thanked Travis Kelly for his work on behalf of the City, including traveling to Washington, D.C. and meeting with Congressman Ronny Jackson’s office and federal agencies. Also thanked Travis Kelly, Jeff Hammond and the FNI team for the considerable work that has gone into securing funding and their continued efforts to pursue additional opportunities for Runaway Bay.
- 🌳 LEAVE A LEGACY THAT LASTS FOREVER
The Cemetery Board is giving Runaway Bay residents and families a new way to honor loved ones and preserve their connection to the community through the Eternal Oaks Commemorative Brick Garden. Personalized 4” x 8” engraved bricks are available for $100 each and may include up to four lines of text. Each brick will become part of a permanent commemorative garden at Eternal Oaks Cemetery, creating a lasting place to remember loved ones and celebrate the history of our community. Funds raised through the brick campaign will support cemetery preservation, beautification and future improvements. The project is part of a larger effort by the Cemetery Board to continue improving Eternal Oaks. Current and recent initiatives include irrigation repairs and expansion, planning for future cemetery expansion, a gazebo, a Butterfly Garden, cemetery registration, new signage, Wreaths Across America participation and additional beautification efforts. Purchase a Commemorative Brick Cost: $100 per engraved brick Size: 4” x 8” Engraving: Up to four lines of text For brick purchases or additional information, contact Jackie Ishmael at (214) 460-2521 or jmishmael42@gmail.com. 📍 Eternal Oaks Cemetery815 Port O CallRunaway Bay, TX 76426 Forever remembered. Forever honored.
- 📣 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 📣
The Runaway Bay City Council will meet Wednesday, August 19, at 6:00 p.m. at the Norma Coble Civic Center. Please note: This month’s meeting is on Wednesday instead of the usual Tuesday. Agenda Highlights The August agenda includes several important items, including: Consideration of a task authorization with Freese and Nichols for the City’s Water and Wastewater Master Plan, Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), and Rate Study using USACE funding An update from Freese and Nichols on the City’s ongoing water and wastewater improvements program June and July financial reports Appointment to the Cemetery Board Public Forum Residents may address the City Council during Public Forum, with comments limited to three minutes per person. Residents are welcome and encouraged to attend. Runaway Bay City Council Regular Session 📅 Wednesday, August 19, 2026 🕕 6:00 p.m. 📍 Norma Coble Civic Center51 Runaway Bay Dr., Runaway Bay
- 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.
- City Council Meeting Recap | June 16, 2026
Public Forum: · “Fun Officer” Rhonda Hoover introduced a new Freedom Fest fundraiser: the Fireworks Jail. She noted that Freedom Fest features the longest fireworks show in Wise County and emphasized that the event is powered by volunteers. Residents interested in volunteering are encouraged to contact Beverly. Please see flyers below. · Ken Kilpatrick highlighted another new Freedom Fest activity: the Dunk Tank. Volunteers are still needed to sign up to be dunked. He also discussed returning favorites, including the International Turtle Races, joking that the turtles are hard at work training for the big event. Residents can support Freedom Fest by sponsoring a turtle in the race or purchasing raffle tickets for the mower giveaway. Consent Items · Minuets from May 19, 2026 Regular Session – APPROVED Consideration and Action Items A. Financial Statements prepared by MWH Group – APPROVED a. The auditor reported that the city received a clean audit for both fiscal years 2024 and 2025. Residents who would like to review the audits in full can view the document here: 2024 | 2025. The audit presentation may also be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel as part of the City Council meeting recording when uploaded. B. Shelby Hicks with Meals on Wheels announced the organization’s desire to expand services in Runaway Bay. Last year, Meals on Wheels provided more than 53,000 meals across Wise County, including 12 in Runaway Bay. Hicks explained that Meals on Wheels is not limited to low-income individuals. The program is designed to assist anyone who has difficulty preparing meals independently, regardless of financial circumstances. In addition to meal delivery, the organization also provides transportation services. Residents who are interested in receiving Meals on Wheels services may call 940-627-5329. Check out their website for more information https://www.mealsonwheelswisecounty.org/ C. Eternal Oaks Cemetery presentation a. Barry Schimpf presented a proposal for a Commemorative Brick Garden at the cemetery. The project would allow the purchase engraved bricks to honor loved ones while helping support future cemetery improvements. b. He also provided an update on recent cemetery improvements and future initiatives. Topics included irrigation repairs, expansion planning, new irrigation for future sections, gazebo construction, cemetery registration efforts, signage, the Butterfly Garden, Wreaths Across America, and other beautification projects. c. Council noted to add item to next agenda for consideration. D. May 31, 2026 accounts payable report – ACCEPTED E. May 2026 financial report – APPROVED F. Reimbursement of $43,605.49 from the EDC to the City for the Bay Church infrastructure expenses – APPROVED G. Additional street repair expenditure of $6,900 funded by the EDC – APPROVED H. Ratify resolution authorizing the expenditure of funds by the EDC for the Freedom Fest 2026 -APPROVED I. Proposed $10,000 unbudgeted expense for Fireworks/Freedom Fest – REMOVED a. A motion was made unanimously to remove the item from consideration. Council discussed that City tax dollars cannot be used to fund fireworks J. Ratify Interlocal Agreement between the City of Runaway Bay and Legacy Contracting – APPROVED a. The agreement relates the refurbishment of the Chlorine Building using EPA funds. The competitive bidding process is complete and Legacy Contacting, a Decatur-based company, was selected. b. The $119,000 project is required to maintain compliance with TECQ standards and will be paid through grant funding and reimbursement programs. Updates from Mayor and Council · Phil Reicheneker | Parks and Rec: Reported the last meeting was productive and positive. Recent improvements at Liberto Ballfield include: erosion control, fence repair and new sod which was approved by the EDC last week. They have also started organizing Summer Public Beach Clean-ups on Saturdays · Richard Griffin | EDC: Emphasized the ongoing need for volunteers for Freedom Fest to help make the event successful. · Carolyn Moody | Cemetery Board: Expressed support for the proposed Brick Garden and thanked Barry Schimpf for his presentation and continued work on behalf of Eternal Oaks Cemetery. · Chris Petty | Fire Dept: Reported 20 calls and 2 fires. He encouraged residents to consider joining the department, noting that volunteers receive free medical training and become part of a close-knit team. Interested individuals may pick up an application at City Hall or attend a Fie Department meeting on Mondays at 6:30 p.m. at the Fire Station. · Steve Reynolds | Police Dept: Reported 68 citations, 77 warnings and 26 agency assists. He also announced that he and Officer Chad Lanier recently attended a Crime Stoppers meeting to request funding for Runaway Bay’s first Flock camera along Highway 380. Crime Stoppers voted to fund the first three years of the program. He explained that the cameras assist law enforcement in locating missing persons, traffickers, and tracking vehicles associated with criminal activity. · Steve Holt | GRBA: Noted that the recent Hometown Heroes event was a success, serving approximately 100 attendees while honoring our first responders. Residents may watch the event here. Upcoming events include: o Trash Pick-Up this Saturday at 9am (golf carts recommended) o Patriotic Golf Cart Parade and Kid’s Bike Parade on June 27. · Mayor Herman White: Reflected on the recent ribbon cutting and Veterans Memorial Bridge dedication. The dedication is available to watch here. He expressed gratitude to local veterans and everyone who contributed to reopening Jim Walters Road. Mayor White also discussed the importance of Freedom Fest and the community tradition of the annual fireworks show. As the nation prepares to celebrate America 250, he encouraged residents to take pride in our country’s history and to come together as a community to celebrate the American Spirit. He thanked the volunteers who make Freedom Fest possible and encouraged both longtime residents and newcomers to consider volunteering or donating to help keep this tradition alive for future generations.
- Understanding the Recent TTHM Water Quality Notice
We understand residents may have questions about the recent water quality report distributed to Runaway Bay water customers. At the April 15, 2026 City Council meeting, Public Works Director Ryan Halligan and Public Works Consultant Roddy Boston provided a detailed update regarding the City’s water system, treatment process, and ongoing efforts to address Total Trihalomethanes (TTHMs). With the release of the latest report, we’d like to revisit that information and provide additional context for residents. The recent notice was required by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) because one monitoring location slightly exceeded the federal standard for Total Trihalomethanes (TTHMs) based on a Locational Running Annual Average (LRAA). This average is calculated using multiple quarters of testing data rather than a single water sample. TTHMs are regulated compounds that can form when chlorine, which is used to disinfect drinking water, reacts with naturally occurring organic material in the water. As discussed during the April Council meeting, this is a common and closely monitored issue for water systems across Texas and the United States. While the annual average remains slightly above the allowable limit at one monitoring location, recent testing shows a significant downward trend and demonstrates that corrective actions are working. Since late 2025, the City has adjusted treatment practices, including changes to chemical dosing and timing, to reduce TTHM levels throughout the system. Those efforts have produced measurable improvements. Recent quarterly results at the affected location have steadily declined, with the most recent reading measuring 0.069 mg/L—below the federal limit of 0.080 mg/L. In addition, the City’s other monitoring locations are currently in compliance. It is important to understand that the notice is based on a running annual average rather than a single test result. Because the calculation includes older readings from previous quarters, the compliance average remains slightly above the regulatory threshold even though recent testing results have improved significantly. Ryan emphasized that this notice does not indicate an immediate health risk. Residents do not need to use an alternative water source, and the notice was issued as part of the regulatory process required by TCEQ when a monitoring location exceeds the established standard. The City will continue working closely with TCEQ, monitoring water quality, and making operational adjustments as needed to ensure full compliance is maintained throughout the system. The slides below were presented during the April 15, 2026 City Council meeting and provide additional information regarding TTHM monitoring, treatment adjustments, and recent water quality trends.
- Jim Walters Road is officially reopening!
In May 2025, a section of Jim Walters Road was washed out, leaving uncertainty about it’s future. After months of coordination and hard work between the City of Runaway Bay, Wise County, and numerous partners, the bridge is complete and Jim Walters is ready to reopen. Join us for a Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony: 📅 Friday, June 12 ⏰ 6:00 PM We would like to thank the Greater Runaway Bay Alliance (GRBA) for assisting with the ribbon-cutting ceremony. We would also like to extend our sincere appreciation to Wise County Commissioner Colby Shawn for his assistance and support throughout this process. The opening of this bridge is just the beginning. Mayor Herman White has announced his intent to dedicate the bridge as the Runaway Bay Memorial Veterans Bridge in honor of the men and women who have served our nation. A future dedication ceremony and plaque unveiling are planned to recognize and honor the veterans of Runaway Bay - past, present, and future. As this new bridge connects our community, it will also stand as a lasting tribute to the service, sacrifice, and commitment of those who have defended our freedoms. Come help us celebrate the reopening of Jim Walters!
- May City Council YouTube Recording
The full recording of the May 19, 2026 Runaway Bay City Council meeting is now available to watch on YouTube. Residents can view the meeting at their convenience to hear discussions regarding: Infrastructure and wastewater improvement projects Highway 380 pavement rehabilitation updates Department and board reports Tornado recovery recognition presentations Community event announcements Financial and ordinance items The written City Council recap is also available separately on the Runaway Bay Bulletin for residents who prefer a quick overview of the meeting. Stay informed. Stay involved.
- City Council Recap | May 19, 2026
Public Forum: Cindy Fuller reminded residents about the upcoming Hometown Hero Celebration on May 30, honoring our local first responders. Flyer included for more details. Fuller also encouraged Wise County residents to take advantage of the U.S. Small Business Administration disaster assistance made available through the Governor’s Disaster Declaration. Assistance is available to homeowners and renters impacted by the April 25 tornado. Not just residents in Unit 5, but all of Wise County. Residents are encouraged to help spread the word. Flyer included for more details. Canvas of General Election Held May 2, 2026: Consider/Approve Ordinance No. 640 certifying election results – APPROVED Oath of Office for Newly Elected Mayor & City Council: Mayor – Herman Berry White III Council Member Place 2 – Richard Griffin Council Member Place 4 – Phill Reickenecker Consent Items: Consider/Approve minutes from the April 15, 2026 Regular Session – APPROVED Consideration & Action Items: Consider/Accept April 30, 2026 Accounts Payable Report – ACCEPTED Consider/Accept the April 2026 Financial Report – ACCEPTED Sales tax revenue came in higher this reporting period Consider/Approve Ordinance No. 641, Mayor’s Duties – APPROVED Runaway Bay does not operate under a “strong mayor” form of government. Ordinance clarifies and extends existing administrative responsibilities of the mayor’s office. Updates from Mayor and Council Members: Phill Reickenecker | Parks Board Exciting improvements continue at the Runaway Bay Ballfields as the drainage project moves forward. Tim Liberto was recognized for doing an excellent job overseeing the project. Residents are encouraged to follow the Parks Board on Facebook for updates. Next Parks Board meeting: Tuesday at 6 PM at the Norma Coble Civic Center. Richard Griffin | EDC Continuing budget discussions for local special events. Donations for the annual fireworks show are currently being accepted. Raffle tickets are also available. Flyer included. Next EDC meeting: June 9. Carolyn Moody | Cemetery Board Continuing partnership with the Bridgeport Garden Club while working on the Butterfly Garden project. Next Cemetery Board meeting: Thursday, May 21 at 6 PM at the Civic Center. Steve Holt | GRBA Patriotic décor will begin going up around the city soon. Upcoming Community Events: Hometown Hero Celebration – May 30 | 4 PM–7 PM | Cricket Ridge Park Patriotic Golf Cart Parade 5:00 PM | Kids Bike Lineup: 4:30 PM – June 27 Meet at Bay Community Church parking lot Steve Reynolds | Police & Fire Department 22 calls for service, 3 fires, and 1 stranded boater. Praised local first responders for their efforts during tornado recovery operations. Announced the City has completed storm limb pickup operations. Residents may still take debris to the burn pile site by obtaining a key through City Hall. Thanked volunteers and city staff for their efforts restoring the community following the tornado. TXDOT Update: Lane closures and delays along Highway 380 are expected to begin next week. The project will involve removing approximately 4 inches of pavement and resurfacing in one-mile segments at a time. Roddy Boston | Public Works Updates provided on grant-funded infrastructure projects and the Chlorine Building project timeline: · May 21–22 – Chlorine Building bid opening evaluations and contractor notice of intent · May 29 – Meeting for 90% design review for Jim Walters and Port O’ Call South Lift Stations · May 29 – Submittal to TCEQ · June 23 – Bid solicitation package ready · June 26 – Anticipated completion of TCEQ review and 100% design completion · July 2 – August 2 – Bid package posted publicly in paper · August 24 – Bid opening | Evaluations | Notice of intent/contractor selection · August 24–26 – Final contractor review process · Discussed the ongoing I&I Study being conducted by RH Borden. It has provided valuable data identifying problem areas within the sewer system, particularly faulty manholes and areas impacted by roots and cracks. Public Works crews have already begun addressing several issues identified through the monitoring process. Residents may notice crews removing or adjusting sensors in coming weeks as repairs continue and additional data is collected. Upcoming infrastructure work is expected along Port O’ Call, Tryall Drive south of Highway 380, and Jim Walters Drive as the City continues planning and prioritizing repairs and upgrades to the wastewater system. Mayor Herman White Recapped the past 2½ years of water infrastructure improvements throughout the city. Explained that Runaway Bay previously experienced frequent water line breaks. By locating 64 valves throughout the system, crews are now able to isolate issues more efficiently, affecting fewer residents during repairs while improving response time and workflow. Thanked the City’s Digital Communications Coordinator, Amber Thompson, for keeping residents informed through Facebook updates and the Runaway Bay Bulletin. Spoke proudly about the actions of local first responders following the April 25 tornado:○ Neighbors helping neighbors during tragedy. First responders arriving during hail and severe weather conditions. Crews rescuing victims and performing CPR during critical moments. Emphasized that when seconds count, those responses save lives. Humanitarian Recognition Presented from Senator Tan Parker For leadership and service following the April 25 tornado.(Photos Included) Recipients: Mike Boucher – Runaway Bay Fire Chief Christopher Petty – Assistant Fire Chief Jay Lynch – Fire Department Daniel Butler – Fire Department Rosemarie Pepperdine – Fire Department James Gates – Police Department Rob Powell – Police Department Nick Hall – Police Department Cindy and Rob Fuller – GRBA Cara Watkins – GRBA Leah Gardner – GRBA Camree Gunter – Resident
- Public Works Update
As spring continues and summer approaches, I want to provide an update on repairs and upgrades to our collection system. The I&I study by RH Borden has provided valuable information. The monitoring system remains active, and each rain event adds data. RH Borden has confirmed we now have sufficient rainfall data to plan repairs accurately, so we have begun making repairs. Over the past two weeks, our public works crew has addressed several issues identified in the study. Most inflow problems are due to faulty manholes. While there is some infiltration in the lines, steady flows indicate that roots and cracks are likely the main causes rather than collapsed lines. We will use camera inspections to identify specific problems and target repairs accordingly. In the coming month, you may see crews at manholes removing sensors. These sensors monitor water levels and flow rates in the sewer system during rain, helping us identify sources of inflow. Some sensors will remain in place to continue collecting data as repairs progress. Ongoing monitoring allows us to evaluate the effectiveness of repairs and quickly detect new issues. Work continues at the chlorine injection building at the wastewater treatment plant. In two weeks, we will award the contract to repair and secure the building. Over the next month, we will complete engineering plans and submit designs to TCEQ for approval for two lift stations requiring urgent repairs. Crews will address these stations later this summer, when flows are lower. The next phase of engineering will assess and plan further upgrades to lift stations and pressurized sewer lines. We will also begin repairs or replacements for defective manholes and sewer lines. While final schedules are being developed, initial work is expected to start along Port O'Call and Tryall Dr., south of US HWY 380, as well as on Jim Walters Dr., where urgent repairs are needed. Residents in these areas may notice increased activity as crews begin work in the coming months. We will provide updates on specific locations and timelines as plans are finalized. We understand the process can seem slow, and we want to be transparent about the reasons for some delays. Many projects require engineering, permitting, and regulatory approvals, which can be time-consuming. Securing specialized equipment may also be delayed due to supply chain challenges and longer manufacturing lead times. We are working closely with our engineers, Oncor, regulatory agencies, and supply vendors to address these issues and maintain progress. By communicating frequently with all parties, we can monitor progress and address setbacks promptly. We will continue to keep you informed as work advances. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact City Hall at (940) 575-4745, or call (940) 389-0255 after business hours and on weekends. If you notice any overflows or anything unusual, please let us know. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this time and are committed to providing the service you deserve. As we move forward, we aim to maintain the quality of service this community needs now and in the future. Roddy Boston Consulting Operator City of Runaway Bay












