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SMITHVILLE — Smithville City Council held its regular meeting April 14, highlighting a strong financial audit, upcoming annexation plans and several community-focused initiatives.
Positive annual audit
Auditors from Singleton, Clark & Company presented the city’s fiscal year 2023–24 financial audit, which showed assets exceeded liabilities by more than $17.2 million.
The city’s net position increased by over $700,000, according to City Manager Robert Tamble, with gains in both the general and utility funds. The combined fund balance for governmental funds also rose to $3.34 million, he said.
Smithville maintained a “clean” audit, with no findings or questioned costs, according to the council.
While the reserve fund remains about 2% below the recommended 25%, officials described the city’s financial position as strong and stable.
Land, policy updates
The council approved the first of two public hearings related to annexing a state-owned tract previously used by TxDOT for drainage improvements.
The land is needed to complete a detention pond project and will be brought into city limits following the second hearing, according to the council.
In other business, the council approved minor clarifications to its Equal Employment Opportunity policy and held an executive session on public improvement district policy.
No action was taken, but a public workshop will be scheduled in May to gather community input.
Preserving and planning
As part of the Smithville Southside Historical Project, council members approved new historical markers for Mount Pilgrim Baptist Church, Mary A. Brown Elementary School and Colorado Baptist Church.
Councilmembers said the initiative honors the cultural legacy of the city’s Southside neighborhood.
In addition, a special-called workshop has been set for April 24, where Georgetown-based company reUse will present on advanced wastewater treatment options.
The company will outline membrane bioreactor technology and how it could support Smithville’s long-term infrastructure goals, according to Tamble.
Preparations also continue for the city’s annual Jamboree festival, scheduled for April 24–26 at Riverbend Park.
Now in its 66th year, the event is expected to draw thousands, officials said.
Loop 230 will remain closed from 1:30-4:30 p.m. April 26 for the Jamboree parade.
