September 17, 2026 Special Called City Council Meeting

The City of Longview held a Special Called City Council Meeting on September 17, 2026, which included extensive citizen comments primarily focused on the city's curbside recycling program. The council discussed the challenges facing the recycling program, including low participation rates (around 12%), confusion over recycling rules, and the financial sustainability of the program. A motion to terminate the recycling program was introduced but failed due to a tie vote, resulting in the continuation of the program with plans to form a citizen task force to improve communication and participation. Additionally, the council approved the fiscal year 2026-2027 budget, including allocations for capital improvement projects totaling approximately $3.46 million, such as water system upgrades and facility repairs. Economic development agreements under Chapter 380 were authorized for two companies, Quant Services and Rob Roy Industries, involving tax abatements contingent on meeting employment and investment goals. A one-time $500 cost of living adjustment payment was approved for about 33% of city employees to aid retention at lower pay scales. The meeting also included presentations on grant funding for transit bus purchases and community events like National Night Out. Overall, the meeting focused heavily on budget approvals, capital projects, economic development incentives, and the future of the recycling program.