Waco · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Waco public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Certificate of Appropriateness for additional landmark property
A second landmark-designated property was the subject of a proposed improvement requiring the commission's review before work could proceed.
Historic landmark property improvements (1002 Webster Avenue)
The former First Baptist Church building is a designated historic landmark, so any exterior work needs a Certificate of Appropriateness from the commission. The applicant was seeking permission to make improvements to the building.
Strong fiscal year for hotel occupancy tax collections
Hotel tax collections hit $7.88 million in FY26 — nearly 110% of target and 6% above the prior year — money that funds tourism marketing, the convention center, and local attractions. The FY27 target has been raised to $7.72 million.
AJGA Waco Junior Open Incentive Request
IRONMAN 70.3 Waco sold out with 3,225 athletes and drew its largest checked-in field in four years, generating an estimated 5,232 hotel room nights and over $1.1 million in dining spend. IRONKIDS was rained out, but companion events like Beast of the Brazos and Waco Wild West added thousands more room nights.
Tourism incentive requests for 2027 events
Three organizations sought hotel-occupancy-tax-funded incentives totaling $35,500 to bring events to Waco in 2027: the Texas Innovation Invitational, QuiltWeek Waco, and the Diocesan Catholic Youth Conference. Together they're estimated to generate roughly 3,700 hotel room nights, much of it in off-peak months.
Transitional shelter special permits
Two shelter-related items were on the docket: a new Transitional Shelter II special permit near 18th and Gorman, and a renewal for the Cenikor Foundation facility on Lyle Avenue. These decisions affect where supportive housing and recovery services operate in the city.
Expansion of Sober Living Housing in Sanger Heights
Two facilities serving people recovering from addiction came before the commission: a new 34-bed New Chapter Community recovery housing campus in Sanger Heights and a renewal for Senecore's long-running 60-bed treatment center on Herring Avenue. Both won unanimous recommendations.
Demolition Permit Delay for 606 N. 15th Street
A scheduled review regarding a demolition permit delay for a property at 606 N. 15th Street was postponed due to the meeting cancellation.
West Waco Library Flooring and Facility Improvements
The West Waco Library reopened following a capital improvement project to replace flooring throughout public areas and meeting rooms. The updates help modernize the branch and provide a better environment for library visitors.
Rising Images Delinquent Account Write-Offs
The board will consider authorizing write-offs for uncollectible delinquent accounts across several local apartment complexes managed by Rising Images, Inc.
Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Outreach
The city is working to improve local business participation and accessibility through its e-procurement portal and community outreach initiatives.
Sustainable Action Work Group and Annual Reporting
The board is scheduled to hear updates from its Sustainable Action Work Group, which focuses on local environmental issues and policy recommendations.
City Website Veteran Resources
Partnering with the VA, upcoming claims clinics in Mexia and Waco aim to streamline benefit approvals and prioritize first responders.
2026 Boards and Commissions Annual Report
The board plans to discuss the preparation of its annual report to the Waco City Council, highlighting key accomplishments and focus areas.
Setback and Parking Variances for 920 Sherman Street
Property owners are seeking various exemptions from city zoning rules regarding yard setbacks and fence heights to accommodate new construction or site improvements.
Information Security Program and Risk Assessment Compliance
The board will consider adopting an Information Security Program and Risk Assessment to comply with federal Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act standards, protecting sensitive data and establishing corporate security policies.
Parks and Recreation Planning and Advisory
The commission reviewed updates on park developments, recreation programs, and budget planning for the upcoming fiscal year.
Adoption of City Council Civility Pledge
Waco leaders adopted a formal resolution committing to maintain high standards of mutual respect, transparency, and civil discourse during public meetings and community interactions.
Groundwater Overpumping Settlement
McGregor's city council just agreed to a record $175,000 penalty because SpaceX overpumped groundwater at its testing facility. Since the city actually owns the site and the wells, local taxpayers are stuck with the bill, even though SpaceX has since reined in its water usage.
Tourism Incentives and Marketing Strategy
The commission evaluated funding requests and incentives to attract sports and tourism events, such as the upcoming T’GIS Waco Junior Open in 2027.
Convention Center Branding Project Replacement
Updates regarding facility management by Legends Global and ongoing branding initiatives were reviewed by the board.
Better Block Foundation Cole Avenue Placemaking
The board reviewed a funding agreement up to $196,000 with the Better Block Foundation to lead community engagement and placemaking initiatives at a city-owned property on Cole Avenue.
Jackson Avenue Sidewalk & Lighting Project
The board evaluated a $900,000 request to upgrade sidewalks and street lighting along Jackson Avenue from 3rd to 8th Street.
Walker Partners Municipal Setting Designation Agreement
A proposal to allocate $100,000 for an agreement with Walker Partners, LLC to establish a Municipal Setting Designation with TCEQ across the entire 12,167 acres of TIF #4.
Bledsoe-Miller STEAM Center First-Year Operations
The newly opened Bledsoe-Miller STEAM Center recorded nearly 30,000 visitor visits in its first six months, providing free and low-cost educational programs for youth and families.
City of Waco 2025 Consumer Confidence Water Report
Teresa Bryant was scheduled to brief the board on Waco's annual water quality findings, giving residents insight into local drinking water safety and utility operations.
Commission Meeting Schedule Adjustment
The commission discussed changing its regular meeting time, which could affect when residents and stakeholders are able to attend and participate in public proceedings.
Airport Operations and Capital Improvements
The board reviewed ongoing airport operations, runway rehabilitation projects, and capital improvement proposals for fiscal year 2027 at Waco Regional Airport.
Personnel Appointment
Waco's got a new hire to make the city a more attractive spot for tourists and residents alike. This person's job is to brainstorm and implement ideas to boost Waco's appeal.
Commercial Rezoning for Waffle House on S. 7th Street
A 0.7-acre vacant parcel at 722 S. 7th Street was rezoned from office-residence to community commercial to clear the way for a new Waffle House location. The site sits near downtown amid mixed commercial and residential uses.
Historic Landmark Preservation Commission Membership Criteria
To address recurring quorum challenges, the city proposed expanding residency requirements for the Historic Landmark Preservation Commission to include people who work in Waco but live anywhere in McLennan County.
Student Housing Development
Big changes are coming to West Waco with a massive new housing development called West Lake Village. This project could significantly alter the neighborhood's landscape and population.
Council Leadership Transition
Waco's top city official, City Manager Bradley Ford, is stepping down in early 2026. This means the city will be looking for a new leader to run day-to-day operations at City Hall.
Voting Rights and Representation
Get ready for a potential shake-up in how Waco picks its city council and school board members! A court ruling is looking at how districts are drawn, and it could change who gets to represent you and your neighborhood.
wastewater discharge into Salado Creek
Get ready, Waco! Millions of gallons of treated wastewater might be heading into Salado Creek soon. A local couple is fighting back to keep the creek clean, especially with more housing planned.
Litter Enforcement
Tired of trash near the suspension bridge, especially after those 'tortilla tossing' events? Waco residents are pushing for real enforcement to keep the area clean, not just one-off cleanups.
Application for 2026 Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant
The board reviewed a proposal to direct MPO staff to apply for federal grant funding for safety planning and demonstrations.
Job Fair
Waco's city government is hosting a job fair to help residents find employment. It's a great opportunity to meet local businesses and explore new career paths.
Recycling Program Updates
The advisory board planned to review recycling updates and hear from Sunbright Recycling representatives.
Park Redevelopment
Get ready for a revamped Brazos River Riverwalk! It's closing down for a big upgrade, aiming to be finished by 2028. Expect a whole new look and feel for our riverfront.
Landfill Operations
Waco's getting a new landfill starting Monday, and the old one's closing this Saturday. This means you'll need to know the new spot for your trash disposal. Don't get caught with garbage on Saturday night!
Public Health Director Appointment
Waco has a new Public Health Director, and this appointment is a major move for the city's health programs. Get ready for potential shifts in how public health is managed!
Data Center Expansion
Waco is looking at a big data center expansion, but some folks are hitting the brakes. They're worried about the strain on our power and water, and whether this tech boom is worth the potential hit to our quality of life.
Economic Development Hiring
Waco's got a new economic development chief! This hire is all about bringing more jobs and businesses to the city. Let's see what fresh ideas they bring to the table to make Waco boom.
Housing Development and Property Portfolio Updates
Updates were scheduled for multiple Waco housing properties including South Terrace, Melody Grove, and Arden at Ritchie.
Municipal Leadership History
The council planned to review current city development projects and reflect on the leadership history of Waco's past and present elected officials and city managers.
Parking Authority Annual Report
The board was scheduled to review and approve the annual report covering parking operations and board activities from July 2024 through December 2025.
Business Development Program
Waco's launching a new program to boost businesses along main streets. The goal is to improve storefronts and streetscapes, making commercial areas more attractive and potentially improving your daily commute.
McLennan County Election Costs and Legislative Updates
Senate Bill 2753 will overhaul early voting dates, polling place requirements, and result reporting procedures, creating logistical and staffing challenges for local election administrators.
Veteran Recognition and Public Projects
The Veterans Advisory Board is working on expanding recognition programs like the local banner project and proposing a new veteran recognition paver project to tie into the downtown riverwalk redevelopment.