Kenedy City Councilman Felipe Leal served as mayor pro tem during the Kenedy City Council’s meeting on January 8 in the absence of Mayor Randy Garza, and Councilmen Ken Riley and Lionel Garcia, Jr.

Ralph Contra, with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), brought an update on the upcoming work on Highway 72 to 792 and U.S. 181.

Contra explained how the widening of the roads and some of the work in conjunction with the city of Kenedy’s Texas Agriculture grant can be done. TxDOT has been in communication with the Texas Agri-grant people to be in the loop and in compliance with the city of Kenedy’s plans.

In prior meetings, Kenedy council members have discussed lighting to be installed and other aspects of work to be done with the grant. The idea is to help the city save money but it was emphasized that the grant money must be used as designated.

Contra explained that (TxDOT) can and will help with the installation of sidewalks to be in compliance with the ADA requirements. He said that the construction should begin in a few months and that they will work with the city, with an invitation that if the members need further explanation, to call or come by his office.

Bob Thonhoff of Thonhoff Engineers gave a preliminary report on the St. Mary’s street water system improvements, particularly beginning the placement of new PVC water lines.

"The new lines will be placed in the same trench as the prior ones, removing those as the new ones are placed," Thonhoff said, noting that this will save time and construction money.

Councilman Bob Patton asked whether or not any new hydrants would be added.

Thonhoff explained that they could be if the council wants additional ones or they can put in the connections so that more can be added later on.

Councilman Felipe Leal suggested that it would be a good idea to send a letter to those who have residences on the street to let them know about the construction on the water pipe lines.

City Manager Reggie White then asked for a budget amendment to reflect the additional funds needed by the UTSA group as discussed at prior meetings. The amount requested for the current coverage is $6,909.45.

"When do they expect their work and study of the wells will be over?" Patton asked.

Winters suggested that it could be completed within a month. Patton then inquired about the outcome of wells 4 and 6.

Winters said they are ready to go online but can be used only at this time for potable water due to the need for completion of all the testing to assure quality control. The council voted to approve the amendment to the budget as requested.

Council then approved the voluntary annexation request by Bobby Alexander of his property at Highway 181 and Flax Plant Road.

Winters presented a report on the Escondido Creek cleaning progress by the San Antonio River Authority. He said that problems of getting all of the easement requirements is due to changes in ownership of the property and current owners not being made aware of the progress going on and the easement involved. San Antonio River Authority personnel are working along with the engineers to get the project completed by March 1.

Winters also reported on the wastewater expansion and improvements, and possible suggestions about airport projects. Discussion on these items will be continued at a later meeting.

Several of the agenda items, including the executive session, were tabled to a further meeting when all of the council members could be present.