Amarillo City Council Meeting 3/10/26

The Amarillo City Council held a meeting on March 10, 2026, which included several procurement and budget-related discussions. Key procurement actions included approval of a 20-year lease agreement with the Emerald Zoo and Sanctuary, involving a city commitment of up to $900,000 and a $50,000 emergency reserve fund to support zoo operations and infrastructure improvements. The council also approved a $27.9 million issuance of combination tax and revenue certificates of obligation to fund major street and infrastructure projects, with detailed presentations on debt service, borrowing capacity, and project prioritization. Additionally, the council adopted resolutions to apply for state Homeland Security grants totaling over $100,000 for emergency response and regional crime center enhancements, including live camera feed capabilities along interstate corridors. A $20 million Texas Water Development Board grant for wastewater treatment plant design was also approved. The council considered and passed a resolution to accept and publicly display a donated Ten Commandments monument on city property, following a public hearing with community input. Overall, the meeting focused on capital improvement projects, grant funding, and procurement decisions impacting public safety and infrastructure.