May 14, 2026 City Council Meeting

The City of Longview held its City Council meeting on May 14, 2026, where key procurement and budget-related discussions took place. A significant portion of the meeting focused on a comprehensive market pay plan study presented by Matt Weatherly, which recommended salary adjustments for approximately 400 civilian employees earning below $25 an hour to improve retention and competitiveness. The proposed adjustments would cost about $2 million, split evenly between the general fund and enterprise funds, representing just under 1% of the general fund budget. The council discussed the importance of sustainable pay increases, addressing pay compression, and maintaining competitive benefits. Additionally, the council approved several procurement actions, including awarding contracts to Northeast Texas Habitat for Humanity for CDBG-funded residential and emergency repair projects, accepting property conveyance for the Teague Park project with a $400,000 commitment, and approving a $375,000 land purchase for park entryway construction funded by grants. The council also authorized a contract with the Northeast Texas Regional MURF for recycling services, noting a budget impact of approximately $22,500 for the next fiscal year due to increased rates. Other agenda items included updating the city building code to the 2021 family and calling a runoff election for District 3. The meeting concluded with community announcements and recognition of retiring city secretary Angie Shepard.