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June 25, 2026 City Council Meeting
Published: Jun 25, 2026
Brandon Smith Sworn In as New District 3 Councilmember, Pledges Service and Collaboration
Councilmember Elect Brandon Smith was sworn into office as the new representative for District 3. Following the oath of office, Smith delivered a speech expressing gratitude and outlining his vision for serving the district and the city. He emphasized the importance of community, faith, collaboration, and making a tangible difference in the lives of his constituents. He also acknowledged the support received from his family, campaign team, and organizations like the NAACP, highlighting their role in ensuring fair voting processes. The meeting also featured citizen comments, including an address from Crisselda Marquez regarding low voter turnout in District 3 and from Katie Estrada welcoming Councilmember Smith and expressing support for his role in advocating for the district's needs, particularly for its youth.
City Council Explores Safety Audits and Reinforces Public Safety Warnings
The City Council discussed and planned for safety protocols and potential future services related to risk management and employee safety. Hub International Risk Services presented a proposal for a comprehensive safety audit, outlining a five-part plan to assess and improve the city's safety programs over approximately 130 days. The council also deliberated on the need for the city to establish its own safety standards since it is not subject to OSHA regulations, especially in light of a recent fatality involving improper equipment use. Discussions also covered comparing different safety consulting firms based on their timelines, on-site presence, cost, and approach (proactive vs. reactive), with a decision to further evaluate GC4 and National Safety Council presentations. Additionally, the council reinforced safety warnings regarding illegal fireworks and unsafe firearm discharge during the upcoming July 4th holiday, emphasizing the importance of responsible celebration to prevent injuries and property damage.
City Approves Funds for Water Treatment Plant Upgrades and Revises Recycling Program
The City Council approved expenditures for critical infrastructure upgrades to the city's water treatment facilities. This included authorizing the purchase of a clarifier drive unit and parts for water and wastewater plants, which are essential components for removing sludge [cite: 728-734]. Additionally, a final payment of $1.1 million was approved for the Lake Cherokee Water Treatment Plant project, which involved upgrading an old and deteriorated lime slurry tank and volumetric lime feeder [cite: 748-752]. These upgrades are necessary to ensure the proper treatment of drinking water, as the Lake Cherokee plant is the oldest and a significant provider, capable of pumping about 26 million gallons of water daily [cite: 755-758]. The council also noted changes to the recycling program, which will now only accept plastics #1, #2, and #5, with plastics #3, #4, #6, and #7 no longer accepted.
Great Texas Balloon Race Celebrated for Significant Economic Impact and Volunteer Dedication
The Great Texas Balloon Race was recognized for its significant economic impact on the City of Longview. Volunteers were celebrated for their dedication, which helps bring over 4,000 visitors from outside the area to the city annually. These visitors contribute to the local economy by staying in hotels and spending money on food and gas. The event is estimated to generate over a million dollars in economic impact for Longview from out-of-town visitors, who come from more than 24 other states. The council commended the volunteers for their hundreds of hours of effort and sacrifice in putting on the event, which has been a tradition for 49 years and will celebrate its 50th anniversary next year.
City Proclaims June as Alzheimer's Awareness Month, Honors East Texas Alzheimer's Alliance
The City of Longview officially recognized June as Alzheimer's Awareness Month through a proclamation presented to the East Texas Alzheimer's Alliance. The proclamation acknowledges the millions of Americans and their families affected by Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. It emphasizes the critical role of caregivers and the importance of increasing awareness, reducing stigma, and connecting families with resources. The East Texas Alzheimer's Alliance, formed in 2017, was specifically noted for its work in providing local resources, education, support groups, and respite services to fill a gap in community care. The proclamation calls for supporting caregivers, honoring individuals living with dementia, and promoting hope through community engagement.
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