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Charter team sets course, search firms selected for leadership positions
A city council meeting steeped in change and forward planning unfolded Feb. 18 despite notable absences.
At the meeting, Mayor Theresa McShan was missing due to a “medical emergency,” with Elgin Police Chief Chris Noble reporting that he visited her and she “sounded good.” Councilman Al Rodriguez was also not in attendance, citing work travel.
The session was led by Mayor Pro Tem Sue Brashar, marking the first meeting with Interim City Manager Isaac Turner seated at the council desk.
Budget planning
Turner opened his City Manager’s Report with a review of the fiscal year 202526 budget calendar and guidelines, urging council members to offer ideas for refining the budget process.
Citing Councilperson Joy Casnovsky’s point, Turner highlighted concerns about the city’s EMS services and its place within the budget.
A map of Depot District, set to launch April 1, highlighting the designated area where alcohol consumption will be permitted. Participating bars and restaurants are included. Image courtesy of city of Elgin
“We know that the EMS issue is going to be a major issue to be dealt with this fall,” he said.
Turner also outlined plans to present a tentative budget to council about a month ahead of previous schedules, July 1, allowing for more thorough departmental review.
Search firms selected
Elgin is moving forward on its leadership hiring efforts with a series of firm selections for its city manager, finance director and community services director searches.
Council members reviewed three different brochures as they sought guidance on choosing a firm to initiate the search process. Officials noted that other cities, including Taylor, had used these firms to fill similar positions with success.
“I will keep my nose out of it,” Turner added. “The only thing I would ask the council to allow me to do is to help make sure that whatever firm you choose stays on schedule.”
While the firms boast nationwide and Texas-specific experience, SGR and Affion Public emerged as the frontrunners.
For the city manager pursuit, Council Member Chuck Swain nominated SGR, and the motion passed 6-2. The firm was also unanimously voted to head the community services director search.
Affion was selected for the finance director position.
Charter review
The council has charged the newly formed Charter Review Committee — comprised of nine nominated residents — with modernizing Elgin’s governing framework.
The team was appointed earlier this month and will conduct a comprehensive review of the current city charter, evaluate outdated provisions and incorporate council input to pinpoint future needs and clarify deliverables, according to the city.
McShan had prepared a list of focus points and initial discussions have begun, with final input expected by March 4.
City officials emphasized that while the council will share recommended focus areas, they aim not to overly influence the committee’s independent review process.
Legal counsel is set to draft proposed amendments, paving the way for potential voter review in November.
Ward 2 grows
Interim Development Services Director Beau Perry presented plans to adjust city limits in Ward 2.
The proposal features two tracts forming a singular development that includes a public works building, a planned 29-acre Cardwell Estates district for about 110 singlefamily homes and strict development zoning with open space maintained by a homeowners’ association.
Unanimously approved by council, the project aims to optimize land use and connectivity within the area, Perry said.
Infrastructure updates
Elgin’s new alcohol- friendly Depot District is set to launch April 1.
With its logo finalized and an education piece in the works, the council simultaneously passed alcohol waivers needed for future off-district events.
Meanwhile, contractors will be improving roads — specifically Avenue B from West Second Street to Depot Street — with work scheduled from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. through April 1, weather permitting.
Beyond council business, community-focused events and projects remain underway.
The library is hosting a Read Across America kickoff event March 1 from 1:30-3 p.m. to celebrate Dr. Seuss’s birthday.
Last year’s event drew close to 800 attendees, featuring book giveaways, arts and crafts, inflatable games and vendors.
This year’s story-time reading will come courtesy of Elgin Independent School District Superintendent Jana Rueter.
