During this morning’s meeting of the Brownwood City Council, an ordinance, on first reading was considered regarding prohibiting dogs in the fenced area of the soccer complex. The council, on first reading, unanimously approved the ordinance, but agreed that amendments would need to be made prior to final approval.

The council also approved an ordinance, on first reading to close and abandon a 20-foot strip along the north side of the right of way of Milam Drive from Indian Creek to Mustang Drive and to abandon the adjacent property owner, reserving a utility easement. Jenca Land Company has purchased that property and plans to build townhomes and needs that 20-foot strip for development. The city is permitted in this instance to sell the property to JLC for less than fair market value because it is an abutting property owner. The council also heard from assistant city manager Tim Airheart regarding the purchase of eight new trucks for the various city departments. The council unanimously approved a $200,000 expenditure, saving the city $20,000 from the original budgeted amount.

In other business, the council accepted offers to purchased city properties on Vine, West Anderson and First Streets; extended an agreement with the Texas Department of State Health Services and the Brownwood/Brown County Health Department and ratified mayoral appointments to the Library Board and Planning and Zoning Commission. Crawford also informed the public city hall would be closed December 23rd and 26th for the Christmas holiday.