Paul Gaudette Managing Editor
A state of the city address was delivered by interim city manager Cameron Ray at the Tuesday, Oct. 28 Dublin Rotary Club meeting, highlighting accomplishments made in the city and stating its needs for success in the future.
“When I accepted the role of Interim City Manager, Dublin was facing a serious financial challenge,” said Ray. Revenue shortfalls, increased operating costs, and lower-than-expected tax collections created a significant deficit… Our City Council and staff rolled up their sleeves and addressed these challenges with determination, collaboration, and integrity.”
Ray said every current decision is made with the future in mind. “Every dollar saved, every grant pursued, every strategic partnership we form is part of a bigger picture: creating a sustainable, strong Dublin for the future,” he added.
Ray said one of the most significant choices was in transferring the Dublin EMS program to the county, saving the city $11 million in avoided costs and liabilities over the next 15 years while keeping the same staff serving Dublin, just under the banner of the county.
“To put it in perspective, an ambulance purchased five years ago cost around $200,000. Today, the cost of a new ambulance is approximately $450,000,” Ray said to illustrate the inflation and costs that were saved.
“Dublin will continue to have a fully staffed ambulance right here in town, responding to calls just as it always has,” Ray said. “The difference is that it will be operated professionally by Erath County, with the city providing a small subsidy to maintain local service.”
Ray reported Dublin manages nearly $3.3 million in active grants, which support a variety of important projects:
• $3 million for water-line replacement, ensuring decades of reliable service.
• $200,000 for library infrastructure upgrades, supporting lifelong learning and community engagement.
• $45,000 for fire department equipment, keeping volunteers safe and effective.
• $67,000 for police department radios, strengthening officer safety and communication.
Ray attributes these grants to the collaboration between city staff, state and federal agencies and community partners.
The advancement of Public Works was also highlighted with Ray crediting the crews ability to do things in-house rather than relying on contractors. “This capability saves taxpayers thousands of dollars and builds long-term capacity to respond to future needs,” he asserted. He also credited Erath County Commissioner Albert Ray and his Precinct 2 road crew for helping complete critical paving projects efficiently.
Ray also said efficient planning has put the wastewater treatment plant in full compliance with all state and federal regulations — “a testament to the hard work and dedication of our Public Works team.” He added that current compliance is not enough to ensure a successful future so planning must be done for Dublin to have the capacity and technology to serve the growing community.
In community services, Ray credited:
The Dublin Public Library for its community programs, youth literacy initiatives, adult education and more for “building a stronger community”
The Dublin Volunteer Fire Department for their dedication to the community. He noted they do the work without pay but the city supports them with equipment, training, and resources, ensuring their safety and ability to protect the community.
The Dublin Police Department which has partnered with agencies at all levels and updated equipment, improved radios, and expanded training. Ray said the improvements aids officers as they work to build community trust and collaboration
Animal control which Ray said has moved the success rate of placement from a 92% euthanasia rate to a survival rate of 98%.
This demonstrates what can be achieved when people work together toward a common goal.
Emergency Management as the all-hazard response readiness continues to improve through ongoing, in-depth training and coordination across city departments and with neighboring communities
Partnerships were cited as integral to success with Erath County and Dublin working together in the combined dispatch center and state-of-the-art first responder radio network, enhancing safety and coordination for the entire region.
“We also maintain a strong partnership with the Dublin Independent School District, ensuring that our youth benefit from safe, supportive, and educational environments,” he continued.
“Through the Dublin Economic Development Corporation, we are addressing long-standing challenges like property cleanup, code enforcement, and substandard structures,” Ray added. “These improvements, though often behind the scenes, make neighborhoods safer and more attractive, paving the way for future investment.”
“I want to be transparent — Dublin is still a small city with tight finances,” Ray said. “I continue to serve as both Interim City Manager and Chief of Police. But even in this dual role, I see daily evidence of progress and potential.”
“Unity, positivity, and shared purpose are essential,” he continued. “When citizens, businesses, churches, schools, and organizations pull together — planning, investing, and acting collectively — we create momentum that strengthens our city not just for today, but for years to come.”