Benbrook’s City Council gathered on November 6 for a whole evening of decisions that shaped everything from emergency service fees to long-term city planning. Mayor Jason Ward opened the meeting at 7 p.m., joined by all council members and senior city staff.
One of the key actions of the night was approving an ordinance to update the city’s fee schedule. Benbrook Fire Chief Jason Tate explained that rising personnel, medical supply, and equipment costs have heightened the need for updated EMS fees. The adjustments bring Benbrook in line with nearby cities and streamline billing by shifting to block billing for supplies. New rates include increases for Basic Life Support, Advanced Life Support, and specialty care transport. Supply fees for BLS and ALS, as well as oxygen service, were also updated.
The council also approved new Fire Department plan review and inspection fees for commercial construction and annual building inspections. Benbrook was the only city in the comparison group that did not charge for these services. The new fee structure helps recover costs and aligns practices with neighboring communities.
Finance Director Rick Overgaard presented both the September finance report and the quarterly investment report. General Fund revenues for September totaled eight hundred six thousand dollars, bringing the fiscal year total to twenty-seven point four million dollars. Revenues exceeded expenditures by more than $1.2 million. The report also showed substantial Economic Development Corporation numbers and steady investment performance despite a slight dip in yield due to lower market interest rates.
The council then reviewed the city’s investment policy as required by state law. Staff recommended no changes, and the council approved a resolution affirming compliance and continuation of the current policy.
A major budget action followed with the approval of a year-end transfer of one million two hundred forty-six thousand three hundred twenty-nine dollars from the General Fund to the Municipal Complex Fund. This adjusts project accounts for the construction of the new Municipal Complex and reflects previously planned funding decisions. The transfer has no fiscal impact beyond accounting alignment.
During public comment, resident Kevin McGuirk addressed the council. Councilmember Renee Franklin closed the meeting by spotlighting upcoming community events and reminding residents to care for neighbors and those facing needs during the holiday season.
The meeting adjourned at 7:27 p.m., wrapping up a productive session focused on cost management, transparency, and continued investment in Benbrook’s future.
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