San Benito City Commission Meeting Minutes - March 3, 2026

Citizen Alert: New Ambulance Contract and Utility Agency Established

The City Commission has approved a new three-year emergency medical services contract and established the Rio Grande Valley Public Utility Agency, signaling significant shifts in regional infrastructure and public safety management.

• Approved a three-year ambulance service contract with South Texas Emergency Care Foundation, Inc. (STEC-EMS) for emergency and non-emergency services.
• Adopted Ordinance 2636 creating the Rio Grande Valley Public Utility Agency, including the appointment of initial directors and approval of bylaws.
• Ratified a one-year professional services agreement with Carpe Nox Industries, LLC following a debate over contract length and performance accountability.
• Approved the second reading of Ordinance 2593-C-02-2026, adjusting the number of authorized patrol officer positions within the Police Department.
• Authorized the installation of Pan-Tilt-Zoom video cameras by Flock Group, Inc. at Landrum Park and First Responder Park as a pilot program.
• Advanced Ordinance 2111-B to prohibit the assessment of additional local fees for alcoholic beverage sales at food establishments already paying operational fees.
• Advanced Ordinance 2252-AX-031726 to establish new regulations for smoke shops and related retail establishments.
• Accepted a $750,000 grant from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for improvements at the San Benito Wetlands.
• Authorized the purchase of one Chevy Silverado and two Dodge Durango police pursuit vehicles for a combined total of $137,876.
• Ratified $59,000 for emergency repairs to a collapsed utility manhole at the intersection of Expressway 77/83 and Whalen Road.
• Conducted public hearings for multiple rezoning requests, including transitions from residential and heavy industry to commercial general retail business.