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EAGLE LAKE — The Community Center played host to the start of a new tradition as several city officials and workers gathered for the city’s State of the City Address on Nov. 9. Led by Mayor Tim Kelley and featuring a dinner provided by Austin’s Barbeque and Catering, those in attendance reminisced on some of the positive initiatives throughout the past year as they plan to make the address an annual occurrence.
“I’m proud of the state of the city, and I’m proud to be your mayor,” Kelley said, “We are all in this together.”
Many of the positives covered during the address were related to the maintenance, repair and restoration of several different landmarks in the city. Kelley highlighted the significant grant contributions from different departments that helped the city move forward with several projects.
The Lower Colorado River Authority provided $75,000 in total grant funds with $25,000 being allocated to the city pool, and the rest focused on repair for the fire station’s roof. Endeavors matched the $25K grant to double the funds heading toward the restoration of the pool. The Blue Cross Blue Shield contributed as well with $40,000 that went toward the Fitness Court in the newly renamed Veterans Memorial Park. Texas Parks and Wildlife also contributed grant funds with $300,000 for a nature trail in the city.
Funds were a significant topic at the address as Kelley highlighted many of the financial savings the city had accomplished under the direction of City Manager Charles “Tink” Johnson and City Council. With the increase in savings, the town benefitted from a reduced tax rate and gained more capability to pursue an important project: repairing damaged and unsatisfactory roads around the town.
“We’re fixin’ to get the streets fixed,” Mayor Kelley said to a rise of applause.
The city plans on a full restoration of the roads, starting with streets that have been identified with the most need. New sewer lines, water lines and pavement will replace the old roads until each street is brought to a similar standard down the line. According to the Public Works Department, work on the new streets is likely to begin within six months.
The city has been making a push on repairs as it accomplished what would amount to five years of maintenance according to their report.
There are many changes on the way in Eagle Lake related to town beautification as well as different departments within city limits.
The police department will look somewhat different as they look to rebrand with new logos and badges. Different buildings around town will also look to receive improvements as the Community Center, airport and downtown area already have actions in motion to bring change such as the plan to add skylights to downtown.
The noon whistle to mark near lunchtime may also be paired with a 6 p.m. whistle as the town looks to add more features unique to Eagle Lake.
With so many changes already made, the planned initiatives discussed at the address are a part of an effort to push Eagle Lake forward and continue to progress.
