Historic Preservation Council | 08-05-26

The City of Harlingen held a City Commission meeting on August 5, 2026, which included extensive discussions on various procurement and contracting matters. Key procurement-related actions included the approval of a one-year renewal for professional auditing services with Gasco and Gasco's Associates under RFP 2023-20, and authorization for the city manager to execute an advanced funding agreement with the Texas Department of Transportation for the Loop 499 shared use path project. The commission also approved a change order for the street improvement program material supply contract with CAPA Texas. Additionally, the meeting addressed the approval of a contract with Dr. Shelley Mitchell DVM for spay/neuter services and funding recommendations for community development block grants and affordable rental housing programs. A significant policy discussion focused on updating the city’s decorum ordinance to clarify public meeting conduct without infringing on First Amendment rights, including provisions for translators and public comment time limits. The commission also debated and ultimately denied a motion to nullify an agreement between Harlingen Waterworks and RGB Property Group LLC due to legal constraints. Other agenda items included zoning changes, public hearings on special use permits, and the approval of a new mural project subject to community input. The meeting concluded with executive session motions related to economic development projects, real estate deliberations, and collective bargaining updates for police officers.