The Stephenville City Council convened for its regular meeting Tuesday, Feb. 4, addressing a range of community concerns, approving contracts for upcoming elections and recognizing a Stephenville Police Department (SPD) officer for a lifesaving act.
A Stephenville police officer was recognized for his quick and decisive actions that helped save a life. Officer Dillon Scott received the SPD Lifesaving Award, a recognition of his outstanding service and commitment to public safety.
Scott responded to a possible domestic disturbance call with little information available. Upon arrival, Scott was met with an armed individual wielding a handgun. The officer’s rapid assessment and actions ultimately saved a life, Stephenville Police Chief Dan Harris said. Harris also complimented the work of dispatch to get accurate information to the officers.
Harris commended Officer Scott for his professionalism and bravery under pressure.
“Officer Scott immediately and without hesitation placed himself in harm’s way to stop the threat, to protect an innocent woman and many children that were in the home,” Harris said. “The heroic actions of officer Scott are exemplary of the top notch professionalism of the Stephenville Police Department.”
The meeting also highlighted the community’s commitment to giving back. Representatives from Waste Connection presented a check to the annual Trash to Treasure Golf Tournament, a fundraising event aimed at givingbacktothecommunity. The over $30,000 check will help the Stephenville Park and Rec put on the charity golf tournament. All proceeds from this tournament will go to an all inclusive playground at the city park.
During the citizen General Discussion portion of the meeting, local citizen Julie Haringa raised the issue of excessive motor vehicle noise, particularly from motorcyc l e s. Haringa expressed concerns about the disruption caused by loud engines in residential areas and near businesses. She urged the council to address the issue, citing the impact on quality of life and potential safety risks associated with reckless driving behavior.
Chief Harris responded to Haringa’s concerns, assuring herthatthepolicedepartment is actively addressing the issue. He noted that officers have already been issuing citations for noise violations and that law enforcement is aware of the problem.
“We’re identifying them. We’re identifying all their motorcycles. We’re taking enforcement actions in a safer way other than pursuing them. Whether that’s citations in the mail or even warrants for their arrest,” Harris said.
After discussing the resident’s concerns the council proceeded with its regular agenda. (Just tightened it down).
Reports were given for the 2024 police racial profiling report. The audit done on the department showed that they were compliant with all laws and regulations. The department also had zero racial profiling complaints for the year.
During the committee reports the council approved an Infrastructure Partnership with Habitat for Humanity and an Annual Amendment for Wastewater Treatment Plant Operations.
Nominations for the citizens board, library board, two spots on the main street advisory board and two spots for the visiting bureau advisory board were all approved. The tourism board voted to add Caitlin Moyer to the Western Heritage Advisory Board and it was approved by the council. Other items approved by the council Tuesday night included:
■ Two separate rezoning, one multifamily to integrated Housing, the other neighborhood business to central business district.
■ Two zoning change requests for waivers relating to sidewalks, curbs and gutters were denied.