City Council

The City Council acts as the legislative body for the city: it adopts ordinances, sets policy, and determines the overall direction of the city. 

It approves the annual budget, spending, and tax rate. 

It determines city services, programs, and how city resources are used. 

Council members represent the community, listen to citizens, and help shape local government based on those needs. 

The Council cannot act on items that are not on the posted agenda during a public meeting. In Texas, under the Texas Open Meetings Act, issues not listed cannot be debated or decided in that meeting.

The Council does not handle day-to-day operations (that is typically done by city staff or a city manager/administrator) — Council’s focus is policy, oversight and direction. 

Members do not act individually with full Council authority; most decisions must be taken by a majority vote at a properly noticed public meeting. 

You are welcome to contact your City Council members or attend Council meetings to share your thoughts and concerns.

Before a meeting, check the agenda and, if you wish to speak, follow the city’s rules for being placed on the agenda (for example, contacting the City Secretary ahead of time).

When reaching out, provide: your name, contact information, a clear description of your concern or suggestion, relevant facts or documents, and what you hope the Council will do.

Be respectful, concise, and focused: Council members and staff appreciate well-organized input.

Most meetings include a “Public Comment” or “Citizen Input” segment — this is your opportunity to address the full Council.

While you may speak on agenda items (or in some municipalities, on any topic), note that law requires that no debate or decision can be made on topics not listed on the agenda. So comments may be noted for future action.

Be courteous: speak clearly, stick to your allotted time, avoid personal attacks, and focus on the issue — your view helps the Council understand your perspective.

After comments are given and time allowed, the Chair or Mayor will typically move on with the scheduled agenda.

Your Council sets the tone for local government and makes decisions that directly affect your quality of life — from roads and utilities, to safety, to planning for growth.

By engaging respectfully and constructively, you help make the process better for everyone.

Knowing how the process works means you’re better prepared when you have a concern, suggestion, or want to support a community initiative.