Stephenville city committees met to discuss revisions to housing incentive programs, infrastructure improvements, and city administration services Tuesday, March 18.
Several items were approved and sent to the city council for final consideration, including updates to the Residential Incentive Program, new health insurance plans for city employees and key development projects.
The Development Services Committee discussed proposed revisions to the Home Improvement Incentive Program, which is designed to encourage homeowners to invest in property renovations. To make the program more accessible, the committee recommended two key changes.
First, they proposed increasing the maximum property value eligible for incentives from $200,000 to $250,000, allowing more homeowners to qualify. Additionally, they suggested lowering the minimum required investment from $25,000 to $20,000, making it easier for residents to take advantage of the program.
According to information provided by the city, these adjustments aim to stimulate neighborhood revitalization and encourage long-term property improvements.
The committee approved the revisions and sent them to the city council for final consideration.
As part of ongoing efforts to fill key city positions, the committee reviewed applications for citizen boards and commissions. One of the appointments included moving James Stephenson, previously an alternate member, to Seat 7 on the Planning and Zoning Commission. His appointment was approved and forwarded to the city council for final approval.
The committee reviewed administrative services proposals for the 2025-26 Texas Community Development Block Grant. This grant, if awarded, would provide funding for improvements to Stephenville’s downtown district, such as sidewalk upgrades, street lighting and infrastructure improvements.
To assist with the application process and potential administrative services, the committee recommended selecting Public Management, Inc. to manage the grant.
This decision was approved and forwarded to the city council.
In another infrastructure discussion, the committee considered professional services proposals for the West Tarleton Street Sidewalk Improvements Project. City staff recommended entering into an agreement with Jacob and Martin, Inc. for the design of sidewalk and lighting improvements along West Tarleton Street, from McIlhaney to Clinton.The committee approved the recommendation, sending it to the city council for further review.