EAGLE LAKE — Eagle Lake Mayor Tim Kelley took to the podium on Nov. 7 at the Eagle Lake Civic Center promptly to bring the expectant audience to date on the Eagle Lake State of the City.
However, not before the crowd feasted on fellowship, steak dinner provided by Austin’s Barbecue and wine.
Highlights of the evening program began with Kelley introducing new employees in several city departments. He pointed out that there is a code compli- ance officer and a revamp of code com -
pliance. The code compliance officer and the police department are working together to quickly and efficiently iden tify and remove junk vehicles.
Dilapidated buildings were next on the agenda. The target number of dilapidated buildings to be repaired or removed yearly is 15. Kelley pointed out that the Wintermann Foundation was instrumental in starting the project.
Municipal technology was updated, and all warrants are automatically uploaded to state computers.
A new policy was introduced for new employees to be evaluated for their current position and their ability to grow within the department through crosstraining.
He pointed out that the outdated telephone system was updated for free through T-Mobile and a contract with Rise for city internet service. Kelley touched on the airport project, including the expansion of the runway, new buildings and a possible airport restaurant. He also pointed out that the city received a $295,000 Wildlife grant to revitalize the trail next to Memorial Park.
After touching on other items of interest, Kelley said the road improvement project will begin very soon, with over one mile of road replacement within the city limits. City ordinances regarding heavy trucks and 18-wheeler trucks coming through downtown and petitioning TxDOT about it are in the works.
Kelley said that an advertising campaign is being worked on. He wants the city to be recognized and found by tourists and Eagle Lake is a great place to visit.
In closing, Kelley said, “I am proud of the state of the city. I’m proud to be your mayor. This is our town. This is our home. We are all in this together. God Bless Eagle Lake.”
