The Stephenville City Council Committee meeting, originally scheduled for Feb. 18, but delayed twice due to weather concerns and the mayor’s health issues, convened on March 4 to discuss various proposals affecting residential development, public works and city finances.
For homeowners in Stephenville, making improvements to their properties may soon become a more accessible investment. The Development Services Committee debated adjustments to the Home Improvement Incentive Program, a policy designed to encourage property owners to reinvest in their homes.
The current program requires a minimum investment of $25,000, but committee members recommended lowering that threshold to $20,000. At the same time, they suggested increasing the maximum property value limit from $200,000 to at least $250,000 to ensure more residents can qualify.
Alongside home improvement incentives, the committee also revisited an issue that has drawn the interest of local developers: the 40% lot coverage restriction for residential properties.
Currently, homeowners and developers must seek a Board of Adjustment variance if they wish to exceed this limit. At the request of a developer, the committee explored the idea of eliminating this restriction altogether, deciding to send the issue to the Planning and Zoning Committee for further consideration.
As Stephenville looks to the future, city officials are pursuing opportunities to secure state funding for downtown revitalization and infrastructure projects. The Public Works Committee endorsed hiring Jacob and Martin, Inc. to assist in the city’s application for the 2025-2026 Texas Community Development Block Grant. If approved, the grant could support projects ranging from sidewalk rehabilitation to street reconstruction and water system improvements in the Downtown District.
Additionally, the committee reviewed a proposal to move forward with stormwater drainage improvements between Riverside Drive and S. Graham Avenue, recommending Insituform Technologies, LLC for the project. Both proposals were approved to be sent to the City Council.
The Finance Committee focused on long-term planning for the city’s utilities, emergency services, and public infrastructure, recommending several measures for the city council’s consideration.
One of the most pressing discussions centered on Stephenville’s fire department, specifically the replacement of Fire Engine one. Currently nine years old, the engine is approaching the end of its 10-year frontline service life and needs to be moved into reserve status to ensure operational longevity.
Given that delivery timelines for a new fire engine are currently estimated at 36-48 months, the committee recommended committing to the purchase of a replacement engine now to avoid excessive maintenance costs and ensure the fire department remains fully equipped.
Another infrastructure concern addressed was the removal of hazardous trees near Clark Regional Airport. A row of trees at the end of Runway 32 has been identified as a height hazard for arriving and departing aircraft, especially during nighttime and inclement weather landings.
The committee also noted that these trees would need to be cleared for the future runway extension project, making their removal a necessary step for ongoing airport improvements.
Jim’s Tree Service was recommended for the project, with the final decision now resting with the city council.
The committee also recommended authorizing the city manager to negotiate a new energy contract, set to take effect on Jan. 1, 2026.
The details of this contract will help determine long- term energy costs for the city’s public services and facilities.
Lastly, the committee discussed the Cross Timbers Legacy Center, recommending the establishment of a structured fee schedule for facility use. This would help provide clarity on rental costs and ensure a sustainable operating model for the center moving forward.