City council members in Karnes City authorized another $50,000 in funding for the city’s park project during their regular meeting February 27.

City Administrator Larry Pippen told council members the project was moving right along on schedule despite a few delays due to rain a couple weeks back. He did note that the park project’s actual costs were running around $31,400 higher than previously expected.

He recommended council authorize additional funding not to exceed $50,000 in order to ensure the park is finished on time. The actual amount spent may be less, though.

The park’s primary source of funding has been a $500,000 state grant, which will expire August this year. The project is expected to be finished no later than June 1.

Council members also heard from a concerned citizen. Barbara Najvar Shaw complained that several local dogs in the area were defecating in her front yard, making her life difficult.

Shaw was accompanied by Karnes County Animal Control Officer Karen Hale, who said she’s had some problems being cussed at and chased off by a few dog owners in the area.

Her policy has been to issue verbal and written warnings for residents violating the city’s code enforcement policies on pets. She announced during the meeting that her department would no longer be warning residents.

From now on, Hale said, violators who let their animals run loose will be issued a citation on the first offense.

Council also approved their fiscal year audit for 2005-6. Beyer & Co. CPA Wayne Beyer told council their books were clean and the audit overall went very well. He also noted the city’s utility fund was in particularly good shape.