By Claudia Perez Rivas | Kingsville Independent News
KINGSVILLE — The Kingsville City Commission met Nov. 24 with all commissioners present, approving multiple public safety funding items and recognizing a century-old piece of the city’s firefighting history.
Minutes from the Oct. 14 and Oct. 22 meetings were approved without discussion.
City updates: new garbage trucks finally arrive
City Manager Charlie Sosa reported that the city of Kingsville has received two new residential garbage trucks after what he described as “21 months of waiting.”
“We finally received them on Thursday (Nov. 20), and they were on the road Friday,” Sosa said.
City Attorney Courtney Alvarez announced that the next regular commission meeting is scheduled for Dec. 8 and is expected to be the final meeting of 2025 unless a special meeting is called. She also noted city offices will close at noon on Wednesday, Nov. 26, and remain closed Thursday and Friday for the Thanksgiving holiday.
Continuing discussion on fee waivers
The city commission revisited a discussion from previous meetings regarding the approval authority for permit fee waivers. Mayor Sam Fugate noted that questions have been raised about the number of waivers granted under the former city manager and said he was only aware of one at that time.
“I’d like to see a list of county projects that we waived [fees] in the past,” Fugate said.
The mayor requested a full report to ensure clarity and consistency moving forward, particularly as the commission continues to discuss how fee waivers should be managed.
Commission honors Kingsville’s first fire engine
Commissioner Edna Lopez presented a proclamation celebrating the 100th anniversary of Kingsville’s 1925 American LaFrance fire engine — also known as Engine No. 1 or “Ol’ No. 1.”
Placed into service in 1925, Engine No. 1 served the community for decades, responding to emergencies and representing the city in parades and special events. Though retired from active duty, officials said the historic truck remains a cherished symbol of firefighter service and community pride.
Public safety items approved unanimously
Commissioners unanimously approved several resolutions benefiting the Kingsville Police and Fire departments:
Bulletproof vests for police officers
Approval to apply for the FY2025 Patrick Leahy Bulletproof Vest Partnership Grant to replace 11 vests nearing expiration.
“This protective gear is essential for the safety of our officers,” Police Chief John Blair said.
The total cost is $15,532, with a required 50% city match.
Police radio communications upgrade
A $20,000 donation from the 1PointFive First Responder Donation Program will allow purchase of four portable multiband radios to improve communications with partner agencies.
Multiple fire department donations approved
Fire Department funding items:
- $250 from the Tractor Supply Foundation for fire prevention education
- $30,000 from the Ed Rachal Foundation for EMS training equipment
- $20,000 from 1PointFive USA LLC for firefighting equipment repairs and maintenance
Fire Chief Juan Adame credited firefighter/paramedic Clint Baird for his grant-writing efforts, which he said have brought the department close to $100,000 in funding. The city manager also commended Baird’s contributions earlier in the meeting.
Permit fee waiver sparks brief tension
Commissioners also approved waiving approximately $1,105 in city permit fees for a 40×40 metal building under construction at the JK Northway site. The building will be used by Texas A&M University–Kingsville’s technology program as a welding education center.
Before the vote, Planning & Development Services Director Erik Spitzer attempted to speak, noting his department had not been consulted on the item. City Manager Sosa declined the request, stating the item fell under his authority. Spitzer expressed concern but the commissioners approved the waiver unanimously.
Meeting adjourned
The meeting adjourned after action on the final item. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Dec. 8.