Well, good morning everyone and welcome to city council chambers. Miss Prime, I think we're ready to go. >> Good morning, mayor. And good morning everyone. Welcome to the presentation of the mayor's proclamations. We begin this morning with a pledge of allegiance. And to lead us, we have the Young Women's Leadership Academy at the invitation of City Representative Leil Lemon. And the academy was ranked number one high school in El Paso by US News and World News and ranked number 40 in the state of Texas. This morning joining us we have Ella Mendulsa, Eloise Blanco, Jayen Sierra, Gbrana Marin, Michaela Olivas, and Yanita Contras. force to the Texas one state and indivisible. >> [applause] >> Take one. Awesome. Smile. two. [applause] >> Okay. >> No. And thank you, Principal Melinda V. Lobos on bringing your students this morning. And on the distinguishments, we continue with the mayor's proclamations. For those of you receiving a proclamation this morning, your group will have up to four minutes collectively to come to the podium and accept the proclamation. The first one is Fort Bliss Boss Day. Representative Chavez. >> Thank you, Mayor. Good morning. [applause] Welcome to City Hall. If you want to uh stand at the podium, um I'll go ahead and read the proclamation and then we'll be able to hear from you. You can all come to the front if you'd like. Thank you for coming. Welcome. The proclamation reads, "Whereas the city recognizes the dedication, commitment, and sacrifice of the United States Army soldiers stationed at Fort Bliss, whose service strengthens our community, our state, and our nation. And whereas the Fort Bliss Boss program provides meaningful opportunities for recreation, community involvement, and personal and professional development in ensuring soldiers have access to positive outlets, leadership experiences, and support networks that contribute to mission readiness and a strong army community. And whereas the Fort Bliss Boss program demonstrates exceptional commitment to volunteerism by supporting El Pasoans fighting hunger, participating in monthly community cleanups with Visit El Paso, and partnering with El Paso rescue runners, thereby strengthening the bond between Fort Bliss and the surrounding community. And whereas the Fort Bliss Boss program stands as a model of excellence across the Army, embodying the highest standards of service, leadership, and community partnership. Now therefore, be it proclaimed by the mayor and council of the city of El Paso, honoring Fort Bliss, Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers, Boss, December 2nd, 2025 shall be known as Fort Bliss Boss Day, signed by the Honorable Mayor Bernard Johnson. Congratulations. [applause] If you could all introduce yourselves and say a few words. There's enough time. >> Uh, Specialist Brian Chilot, boss vice president. I've been stationed here at Fort Bliss for two and a half years and I love El Paso. [applause] >> Hi, my name is Sergeant Maria Ann Lang. I'm the Fort Bliss boss president and I've also been here at Fort Bliss for about two years. >> [applause] >> My name is uh Jay Skillern and I am the civilian boss adviser for uh Fort Bliss and I've been here for about six months. Hello, I'm Sergeant Kimberly Villigran. I've been here for a year now and I'm the boss public affairs officer and we appreciate El Paso and everything that y'all do for us. Thank you for helping us out. [applause] I'm uh command sar major Robert theus. I'm the garrison CSM at Fort Bliss and then the senior enlisted adviser to the boss program. And I'd like to thank uh the city leadership for recognizing all the positive things that the uh the boss team does for the soldiers, but also the strong relationships they have with some of our city partners uh and everything they do to enhance the quality of life for everyone in the city of El Paso. Thank you. [applause] >> Well, thank you all for coming to city hall. Um, as we like to say, uh, Fort Bliss is El Paso and El Paso is Fort Bliss. Um, we thank you for keeping our community safe, our country safe, and for being such an integral part of our community. Um, above that sign over there, you'll see a flag that General Taylor so graciously came and gifted to us. So, we're very proud to see that flag every time we're in this room, and we thank you for your presence here today. Thank you. >> Thank you. [applause] Perfect. >> [applause] >> And the next proclamation is Greater El Paso Association of Realtors get parti representative Nino. [applause] >> Thank you, Mayor Promp. If the honores can make their whales way to the front and I I have a quick uh well, they have a quick recap video. If it can bring up the video as they make their way onto the podium, please >> comes to an end. Good night. >> Hi everyone, [music] this is Belma Bria with >> I'm Ernestto Garcia, your governmental affairs, communications, and marketing director. [music] >> Hi, my name is Tina Turner. >> [music] >> Great things happening for 2025. >> Hello, my name is Saba. [music] I don't care who want [singing and music] to tear me apart. I don't care. [music] >> I'm Gabby Cassada, the affiliate. >> Hi, I'm Patrick subtle, the head of the building task force. [music] >> Hello, I am Alex Wa, president. Everyone, this is Tony Delgado, your JAR CEO. >> Hi, my name is Karen Palanco and I'm >> Hello everyone, Fernando, [music] your education chair of Victoria. >> Hi, I'm Scott Winon. stars. >> Hello, my name is Serero. I'm the [music] is not I'm a member of want [music and singing] to tear me apart. [music] [music] Hi, my name's Otto. I'm all over. [music] >> Hello everyone, my name is Michael Cross. [music] Hi, I'm DJ Mora, your 2025 pack. Because once again, a treat pack, if you're not on the table, you're on the menu. Trust me. Hi, I'm Angelo Chag. >> [music] [laughter] [applause] >> Thank you guys for being here this morning. Um, you all have collaborated and worked with all of us this year and 2025 flew by, but thank you for all the work. So, it's an honor to read this proclamation for the city of El Paso, Texas. Whereas the Greater El Paso Association of Realtors, GEAR, has long exemp exemplified leadership, professionalism, and a steadfast commitment to serving the residents of El Paso through advocacy, education, and civic engagement. And whereas under the direction of chief executive officer Tony Degado 2025 President Thelma Bria and the dedicated members of the governmental affairs committee, GAPAR has gone beyond the traditional scope of real estate profession to strengthen public understanding of property rights and local governments. And whereas through 2025, GEPAR members actively participated in community meetings across all city council districts, including city hosted town halls and neighborhood forums to educate residents on their rights and responsibilities under Texas law. And we're asked through city-wide series of outreach efforts and educational s sessions. Get partnered with neighborhoods, civic associations, and local leaders to inform property owners about how to file a formal protest with the central appraisal district, empowering residents to participate in a transparent, equitable process that promotes fairness in property valuation and taxation. And whereas these efforts helped countless El Pasoans gain confidence in navigating the property appraisal system, strengthening the trust in public institutions, and reinforce the value of civic participation in shaping a more informed and equitable community. And whereas the city of El Paso commends the Greater El Paso Association of Realtors for its continued leadership, partnership, and dedication to empowering residents to education, advocacy, and service. Now therefore, be it proclaimed by the mayor and the city council of El Paso, celebrating GAPAR for the exceptional contributions to our community, advocacy, property rights, education, and public engagement in benefiting the residents of El Paso. December 2nd, 2025 shall be known as Greater El Paso Association of Realtors Day, signed by the Honorable Mayor Renard Johnson. [applause] Thank you so much. Good morning. Good morning, Mr. Mayor, city council members. I see uh Mr. Mayor is a little transparent this morning. That's all right. So, my name is Tony Delgado. I'm the CEO and association executive for the Greater El Paso Association of Realtors, also known as GAPAR. So, it's a pleasure to be here. Let me start by saying what an honor it is uh for our organization to be recognized in the community and by each and every one of you through this proclamation. We really appreciate it. This was a great year. This was a year if I start out back when actually I took this position two and a half years ago. [snorts] I had the vision to really want to help our community out especially when it comes to the property tax. And I want to thank each and every one of you because you all shared that vision with me and invited us in to go to your community meetings and start to educate the public and to help them understand the property tax system and the appeal process. And we've had countless of things, you know, from all of your constituents that it was really helpful for them. It wasn't always what they wanted to hear, but they appreciated the fact that you helped them to understand the system and how it works and what can be done for them. So, we thank you for that. You know, it's it's an honor uh for our, you know, the community to be recognized, for us to be recognized for what we do in the community. I often say that when it comes to realtors, we're about so much more than just representing buyers and sellers in real estate transactions. We're huge advocates for private property rights and we're huge advocates for affordable housing. And some of the ways we do this, we don't do it alone from the local level. We also participate heavily with at the state level with Texas Realtors, at the national level with the National Association of Realtors. And there's one thing that I've come to believe and know, and that's that we're stronger together. And when we when legislation comes around every two years, especially in our state and especially when we're talking about property taxes, we are heavily advocating for that. And it's not just our local association, but through the state, we're talking about over 140,000 members. Here in El Paso, we're probably the I think I believe we're the largest trade organization with over 3,000 members. Also at the state level, over 140,000 members and at the national level at 1.4 4 million members. So there's no doubt in our mind that we can do so much more together. So how do we do that? You know, you know, the proof is in the results. We were heavily advocating for all of us, not just those that are in the market to buy or sell real estate. It's we're always looking out for the community's best interest, this public's best interest. So we heavily advocated that we needed to do something for affordable housing and we needed to find a way to bring down on the property tax side. So, as many of you know, if you received your tax bills this year, you'll see that the exemption on the school portion has gone from 100,000 to 140,000 discount. That played huge. And if you're disabled or over 65, that exemption has gone up to 200,000. So, what does that mean? Well, if your market value or your assessed amount is 200,000, that means if it's your just your homestead, you have your homestead exemption, you're only going to pay taxes on 60,000 on the school side. If you have the homestead and the over 65 are disabled, that means you're going to pay and your market value or assessment amount was 200,000. That means you're going to pay zero tax on the school side. So, that's really played, you know, huge dividends. And we thank you because it's we couldn't do this alone. And I tell you when I say alone I want to recognize that we have some people with us today. Some of our GEAR members and our GEPAR staff which I'm so proud to represent. And at this time too I'd like to call up our 2025 president thema Bria. [applause] >> Hi everyone. I just want to thank uh the city council and the mayor for recognizing us and our realtors and our staff really do work really hard but I think Tony said it best and so thank you so much. >> Thank you. Thank you guys very much. Merry Christmas, happy new year, and God bless you. >> Thank you, Tony. Does anybody else want to introduce themselves this morning? >> Yes. Come on up. Don't be shy. Come on. >> Hi, I'm DJ Mora. I'm your 2025 secretary treasurer and 2026 president-elect. [applause] >> Good morning. My name is Monica Beharano and I work in the finance department. [applause] Good morning. I'm Christina Blanco and I work in the MLS department. [applause] >> Hi, I'm Lisa Noral and I work in the membership department. [applause] >> Good morning. I'm Isa Martinez and I'm the executive assistant. [applause] >> And I'm Ernesto Garcia and I don't get an office anymore over there. I get an office HERE NOW. SO, [laughter] >> [applause] >> I'M MADISON MOIRA AND I'M a realtor. [applause] Well, thank you all for coming this morning. We appreciate you being here. We appreciate you having gone to all of our district meetings and informing our community about, you know, their their tax roles and and how they can basically navigate that that long and arduous process that everybody goes through at the beginning of every year. So, we appreciate your presence here and in our community and always keeping us informed and engaged. Thank you. I don't know if anybody else has something [applause] to add this morning. Thank you all. And the next proclamation is Bishop Mark Sykes and Border Migrant Advocates Day. >> Good morning. If you all could come forward, please. We have a nice large group today. [cough] >> Bishop, thank you for joining us today. It's not every day that someone from El Paso receives an international award, and that's exactly what's happened here. So I will read the proclamation from the city of El Paso. Whereas Bishop Mark Sites of the Catholic Dascese of El Paso has dedicated more than a decade to advocating for the dignity, rights, and protection of migrants and their families along the US Mexico border. And whereas bishop sites prophetic voice, pastoral letters and defense of vulnerable communities have brought national and international attention to the humanitarian challenges facing migrants. And whereas Fox Christi International, a global Catholic peace movement based in Brussels, has recognized Bishop Sit's extraordinary commitment by awarding him the 2025 Pox Christi International Peace Award. And whereas in addition to bishop sites, Pox Christi International has also granted special recognition to three organizations serving migrants in the El Paso Sudatuarees border region, each of which has demonstrated exceptional dedication to humanitarian assistance and the defense of human rights. Annunciation House, which for over 40 years has sheltered hundreds of thousands of migrants. Hope Border Institute, which provides research, advocacy, and accompanyment rooted in Catholic social teaching. in Las America's immigrant advocac advocacy center which has helped more than 50,000 migrants and asylum seekers navigate the legal system and fight to keep their families united and whereas the collective work of bishop sites and these organizations stand as a strong example of compassion in action especially as border communities confront rising global displacement increased humanit itarian need and policies that target migrants, faith leaders, and humanitarian humanitarian workers. And whereas their efforts uplift the spirit of our border community and embody the very best of El Paso's tradition of hospitality, solidarity, and service to those in need. Now therefore, be it proclaimed by the mayor and council of the city of El Paso that today, December 2nd, 2025, shall be known as Bishop Mark Sites and Border Migrant Advocates Day. Congratulations, Bishop. [applause] Well, thank you so much. We really appreciate this recognition. We were very surprised to receive this international recognition that that came our way. But u I I think first of all we should point out that um while we have been involved in in this work uh directly this award is an award to our community. This is a recognition of El Paso being El Paso. Uh and um the city as well as the county have been very directly involved in this work. Um so the award itself recognized the dascese u estraa del paso uh our migrant ministry as well as NOS's that you mentioned in the proclamation lasciation house and u the hope border institute um there are others that could be could be named that were all part of this response when much of the rest of the world was beginning to panic, El Paso in support of annun in support of Annunciation House um came stepped up beginning with the churches I think and and then the broader community organizations with the assistance of the city and and county uh we quietly stepped up and began to provide food, shelter and support to the many hundreds of needy families and individuals who were being released to us every day. Uh there was a mantra, no one left on the streets. Um and we largely carried that out. There were some who turned out, it turned out, wanted to stay on the streets, but but we served. We were ready to take in everyone. The response of our welcoming community caught the attention of not only our nation, but as we see in this award, the attention of the world as a model, an alternative narrative, you might say, of how a healthy community can respond to the stranger in its midst with kindness and charity as we work for a more just society. I'm very grateful for this recognition. Thank you so much. [applause] >> And and before we begin with the No, go ahead. Let's do the introductions. Introductions. >> Good morning. Uh Mayor Prom Council, uh Representative Lemon, thank you for this proclamation and recognition. I'll read a snippet of our remarks. My name is Marisa Leong Garson, the executive director of Las America's Immigrant Advocacy Center. This community um that we humbly stand with has been doing this ministry, this vocation for over 40 years, some going on 50 years and probably since time immemorial as people have migrated across the world. So what we shared with our award, you know, recognizers with Pax Christie International was this. Greetings from the US Mexico borderlands. It's an immense honor to receive a special recognition by Pax Christie International and the Peace Prize bestowed upon the Catholic Dascese of El Paso alongside Annunciation House and the Hope Border Institute. We are on route to stand alongside you, but the US government shutdown made flight travel unruly and delayed. We are with you in faith and in spirit. We humbly accept this recognition alongside such esteemed peers. Our mission calls us to stand in solidarity with the poor and to defend human rights, basic tenants of the gospel that are now viewed as radical and oppositional in the United States. Edna Maldonado and Mire Sierra are our envoys to receive this recognition. Over the course of five years, they have stood at the breach of US government policies on migration at the southern border. They are wayfinders whose only material needs are a folding table, two chairs, some phones, and Wi-Fi. Along with a commitment to accompaniment, and the strength to bear witness to the horrors inflicted upon migrants and refugees, they did so throughout the migrant protection protocols, Title 42, the MPPP windown, and CBP1, policies impacting thousands of fathers, children, mothers, and sisters navigating violent bureaucracies and the threat of imminent danger. Edna and Ma are instruments of God's peace and they embody the best of Las Americas. We accept this recognition in honor of the steadfast work of faith at the southern border by our Mexico program. In closing, we ask for your blessings and prayers as the United States faces down a state committed to violence and terror using Jesus as a mascot to prop up their hate. We recognize the scourge of US involvement around the glo globe and how many of your countries have borne the brunt. We have so much to learn from your peacekeeping efforts in the face of such violence. Please show us your ways. May God continue to bless you and keep you. Thank you, >> Dylan. [applause] Good morning. Um my name is Melissa Lopez. I'm the executive director of Estrea El Paso. Um, I had the great honor of going to Italy um and and receiving this award on um on bishop's behalf along with um Bishop Tony Celino. Um I'm incredibly grateful for for your recognition in addition to this recognition of the work that we have collectively been doing as a community. Um, and I think um, Marisa really said it best, as did the bishop, that this is a recognition of our community, our collective community, and the work that we do together every single day. Um, there is no community like El Paso. Um, truly we are unique. We are special. Um, and I think, um, and this is what I said when we were in Italy, I think that the reason for the what makes us special is that everything that we do, we do out of love. We do it for u out of love for each other, out of love for people we don't know, out of love for our neighbor, out of love for our community, and out of love for those around us. So, thank you all again, um for this, for the recognition, um and especially um uh Representative Lemon, I have to thank you again for your wonderful daughter. I I have no doubt that you know how incredible she is. Um but time and time again, she shows up for all of us. um and is is an incredible advocate for us all. Um and so I I thank both you and uh Mr. Lee for for the incredible daughter that you raised and gave to our community. >> Thank you Dylan. [applause] >> Uh good morning everyone. Good morning members of council. Dylan Corbett with the Hope Institute. Uh let me just echo uh the words of thanks uh from this group. It's a wonderful privilege uh to be part of this group. So I think it's providential that the award was for multiple organizations recognizing the bishop's leadership uh but was also to many of our organizations and I think that that speaks volumes to our commun community because we can only do this through partnership uh and and partnership is only possible because it's born out of solidarity and it's born out of a love which I think are defining characteristics of this community. Um and also your leadership we've worked with many of you over the years. I want to I want to thank you in particular Councilwoman Leon for her leadership in putting forward this proclamation but also her leadership on this issue on the issue of of making sure that our community remains a welcoming community over many years. Uh Representative Canales and other representatives with whom we worked for many years. Thank you for your leadership uh in protecting our heritage, our identity as a welcoming community and everything that you do to make this community a community that welcomes protects promotes and integrates uh people on the move. Thank you very much. >> Thank you. >> [applause] >> Pat, would the rest of you come up and introduce yourselves? Pat, we'll start with you. >> Good morning and thank you. My name is Patricia Rea and I'm the chancellor for the dascese of El Paso. >> Good morning. My name is Crystal Sandoval. I'm the director of community and capacity for Las America's Immigrant Advocacy Center and former director of Las Americas Mexico. Good morning. My name is Jose Lemon. I'm a member of the board of Estrea Del Paso and a father and a husband. >> Good morning everyone. My name is Wendy Lopez and I'm I'm a development associate with Estrea El Paso. Buenos Diaz. My name is Angelica Rodriguez Hernandez and I'm also a development associate with Estrea El Paso. Good morning. My name is Emla Maynard and I'm the legal director at Esta El Paso. >> And I see David in the back over there. David, come up. Please introduce yourself. >> Good morning. I'm David Mills with Eden Performing Arts. We're a nonprofit that's uh dedicated to the multicultural celebration of our community. We're currently working on a project which we've done for the last three years called uh a tribute to Our Lady of Guavalopee which I think fits very neatly into what we've talked about this morning. Thank you. >> Uh thank you so much for being at city hall. Representative Canales. >> Thank you. Thank you. I know we've gone long, so I'll be brief, but um you know, I'm someone who believes in radical love for your neighbor, regardless of the situation that they find themselves in, and and I think indeed the situation you find yourself in. Um and so I I couldn't let the moment pass without saying thank you to all of you for the tremendous work that you do. It is, I think, uh, at least in what I've seen with my own eyes, uh, the greatest example of that that radical love for our neighbors here in El Paso. So, thank you. Thank you very much, >> Representative Lemon. >> Thank you. So, as we close, and we we've taken a little bit perhaps a little bit longer than than usual, but this is such an incredible topic. Ruben Garcia could not be with us today, but if there's an image in my mind of the migrant situation, it is of Reuben that cold December day walking from the bus station and that area and walking to Annunciation House and to the other locations, leading the way in darkness and cold and just offering that that warmth that exudes from them. And Bishop Sites, there's two images in my mind that always always will stay. And the first one is when you walked across the bridge hand in hand with that little girl who was finally able to come across asylum seeker with her family. There was so much joy in your face and I could just tell that in your heart you were beaming as well. And then the third one, Bishop, is the the mass at um at the wall where you held up the pictures of Jacqueline and Felipe are two children that that had died while in custody. Those are the images that I think of when I think about all of this situation. The migrant, all of you have done an exceptional job in our community. We're very proud and we thank you for being with us today. Thank you. >> [applause] >> Thank you. I think that that sums up our gratitude uh for the work you're doing for our community. I always think back of of a song that um we often hear in church with what whatsoever you do for the least of my people that you do unto me. And so we move forward with a lot of pride in the work that you do with our community. So thank you so much for your commitment, your service, and your love. Thank you for being here. >> [applause] >> Thank you. Okay. And the final proclamation is the 35th anniversary of the El Paso Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Good morning. >> Good morning. >> Good morning. Welcome everyone. >> Thank you. >> I'll let everybody nice to see everybody's face. Good morning. So, let me go ahead and read this. Whereas the El Paso Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has served as a cornerstone for business development, entrepreneurship, and cultural advancement in the El Paso region for 35 years. And whereas since its founding in 1990, the El Paso Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has remained steadfast in its mission to be the leading advocate for small businesses, including minority, women, and veteranowned enterprises by providing access to resources, education, and opportunities while celebrating and honoring the richness of Hispanic culture. And whereas the El Paso Hispanic Chamber of Commerce proudly serves all entrepreneurs and small businesses, regardless of background or industry, ensuring every business has a seat at the table and access to the tools needed to grow. And whereas the El Paso Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has worked tirelessly to foster economic growth through mentorship, leadership, development advocacy and collaboration, strengthening the bonds between business and community. And whereas for 35 years, the El Paso Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has been instrumental in connecting businesses to opportunities, including customers, contracts capital training and learning experiences, helping shape a more resilient, inclusive, and prosperous regional economy. And whereas the values of the El Paso Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, leadership empowerment inclusivity cultural pride, service, and collaboration, reflect the spirit, resilience, and entrepreneurial drive of the El Paso community. Now therefore, be it proclaimed by the mayor and council of the city of El Paso, recognizing and celebrating the 35th anniversary of the El Paso Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, commending its decades of service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the success of small, minority, women, and veteranowned businesses. The city of El Paso extends its deepest appreciation to the El Paso Hispanic Chamber of Commerce for its enduring dedication to building a stronger, more prosperous, and more connected business ecosystem for all. The city council expresses gratitude to the founders, past and present board members, staff, partners, and thousands of entrepreneurs who have contributed to the chamber's legacy and celebrates the continued impact the El Paso Hispanic Chamber of Commerce will make for generations of businesses to come. November 14th, 2025 shall be known as the 35th anniversary of the El Paso Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, signed by the Honorable Mayor Renard Johnson. [applause] Council, good morning. Thank you so much for recognizing the impact that the El Paso Hispanic Chamber has made in our community for 35 years now. My name is Liz Gonzalez and I am honored to serve as the new CEO of the El Paso Hispanic Chamber. Um although I've only been in this role for two months, I can't tell you what a what a different community the El Paso Hispanic Chamber truly is. I mean from day one our founders reach out to me and to offer their support. These founders had a vision to create a safe space for minorityowned and for small businesses and entrepreneurs to to be able to create and grow. And so it's an honor to stand here today with our board with our diplomats and our staff and receive this proclamation. So um from the outstanding support of our founders who reached um sorry I said that already. [laughter] I also want to thank our members for trusting us with their dreams and their ideas and of course the growth of their businesses. And um it has been incredibly meaningful to sip into an organization with a 35-year foundation of impact advocacy and service. an organization that supported my business when I needed it the most. The chamber grows because of the passion that we all bring together. And it while it's an honor to uh be recognized for the legacy of the past 35 years, we are also really focused on the next 35 years. And we're modernizing our chamber. We're streamlining our ser our systems. We're elevating our programs, growing our community, and we're creating new opportunities that align with the needs of today's business community. El Paso is evolving, and we are evolving with it. And I could not be more excited for the journey ahead. So, thank you so much, council, and to our mayor who isn't here today for this proclamation. Thank you for believing in us, and thank you so much for your partnership. Together, we will keep building together an inclusive and more vibrant economy f economic future for our region. Thank you so much. [applause] >> Good morning, city council. Uh my name is Frank Spencer. I'm chairman of our beloved Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. I'd like to thank you for recognizing the Hispanic Chamber's 35th anniversary. 35 years ago, a group of visionaries believed in something bold. The economic power and potential of the Hispanic business community. And today, the vision is alive. And every entrepreneur who who we've helped turned an idea into a thriving business. 20 years ago, almost to this day, I walked into this chamber with nothing more than a dream. A few dollars in savings, no connections, no road map, just hope. But the chamber opened doors. It connected me to mentors, resources, and opportunities I didn't even know existed. That experience changed my business and it's changed my life. So standing here today as chairman isn't just an honor. It's full circle. This chamber believed in me when my business was just an idea. Now it turn. It's my turn to believe in others. Over the past 35 years, the Hispanic Chamber has been a bridge connecting small businesses to capital, education, and opportunity, linking businesses and government, and extending our reach across borders through bational partnerships. To our members, corporate investors, partners, and our incredible staff. Thank you all. And to our CEO, Glattis Gonzalez, thank you for your leadership, your energy, and your vision for what comes next. The first 35 years were about building a foundation. The next 35 years will be about expansion, innovation technology and collaboration across industries and borders. Because when small businesses grow, El Paso grows, and we're just getting started. Thank you all. [applause] Good morning, city council. My name is Antonio Rico and I'm the incoming chair for 2026 for El Paso Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. I was also part product of the El Paso Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, but many many moons before. Frank, I just realized that I've been involved with the chamber for over 25 years out of those 35. It is exciting to be the one that is going to kick off the next 35. Although I can assure you I will not be around to see it all the way through, but I definitely committed to making sure that at least the beginning. It is strong as it's always been and it is full with new people, younger leaders that we definitely need. We thank all of you, the city, our community leaders, past uh board members, all of our membership and especially our staff has been so dedicated and unwavering when it comes to delivering the type of services that we that we offer. Again, thank you very much for this great recognition and we'll see you in 35 years. Thank you very much. [applause] >> Thank you. Does everybody want to introduce themselves? >> Good morning everyone. My name is Itella Raon and I'm at the membership manager. >> Good morning. >> Good morning. I'm a proud diplomat. My name is Roselyn Thornton. Good morning. >> Good morning. My name is Cynthia Lopez and I am programs and events specialist. Thank you. >> Good morning, council. My name is Jessica Rosco and I am the programs and events manager. >> Good morning, council. My name is Lori and I'm the finance manager. >> Good morning, council. I'm a proud diplomat member. My name is Betsy Noos Castillo, Castillo Agency. >> Good morning. My name is Sandra Lucero and I am proud dipl representing Builder Source um appliance gallery. Thank you. >> Good morning. My name is Alano and I'm a proud member of the uh diplomat of the chamber representing Western Tech. Thank you. Good morning everyone. My name is Amanda Aila. I'm a proud diplomat representing Western Technical College. Thank you. >> Good morning everyone. My name is Denise Ailar. I'm a proud uh diplomat and I'm also representing Western Tech. >> Good morning Washington. I came on at the same time that Frank Spencer did. We both got 20 years in the game. Proud to be a board member and executive board member. Thank you. >> Good morning everyone. >> Good morning. >> How's how's my chamber doing? >> Welcome. >> Good. Good to see you guys. >> Good to see you. >> Yeah. Represent Lemon. >> No. >> Okay. Representative uh >> Trey. >> Thank you, mayor. Congratulations everyone for the 35 years and this new era, new leadership. many familiar faces. I've been a member of the chamber off and on for like 20some years as well. So, you all are doing amazing. Keep up the good work and happy 35th. [applause] >> And like many of you, I started at this chamber, I'm going to age myself here, probably 20 years ago. And um as we know the uh Cindy Ramos who is lives in all of our hearts uh was very instrumental in in helping guide me and mentor me uh through my businesses and the things that I've done. And this chamber has done a really really great job with all the small businesses, womenowned businesses and everything that you guys do. And this next chapter, the next 35 years are going to be incredible. So I can tell you, you know, being a past uh chairman of this chamber, you know, put your seat belts on. You got a great leader here with you now and you got a great board. So congratulations and sky's is the limit. Congratulations guys. [applause] >> Ready for a picture? >> [snorts] >> eating my vegetables. I should be growing any day now. You know, I've been saying that for the last 30 years. And you never give up. And that's what I love about you. We'll get started. >> Okay, Mr. Bryan, I think we're ready to go. >> Yes, Mayor. Good morning. This is a meeting of the El Paso City Council for Tuesday, December 2nd, 2025. Mayor Johnson is present and presiding in council chambers along with representative aso, representative nino, alternate mayor promo, representative lemon, and representative canales. We begin this morning and representative Boretjo is also present. We begin with an invocation delivered by El Paso Police Chaplain Robert Hempill Jr. >> Good morning. Good morning everyone to the honorable mayor Renard Johnson, Mayor Pro Tim Chaffis and city council members, department heads, please join me at this time for the invocation. Great master of wisdom and guidance, as we gather here today for this December city council meeting, we pause to express a gratitude for the many blessings our community has received throughout the year. [snorts] We ask that you grant us the wisdom and clarity needed to address the agenda items before us. May our discussions be productive, our decisions be just, and our actions focus on the common good for all citizens of the people that we serve in the city of El Paso, Texas. During this reflective season, we're reminded of the importance of unity, compassion, and the shared hope for a bright future. Help us to listen to one another with open hearts and respect our differences so that we can work together in harmony even when we have honest disagreements. We pray for strength and courage for our mayor, council members, city staff, first responders, and department heads who work diligently to make El Paso a safe and welcoming uh community to live in. May our work today con contribute to peace, well-being, and flourishing the entire seed as a whole. This we ask in your name. Amen. Thank you. I'm going to ask everyone to remain standing. We're going to honor a moment of silence for Alicia Chone, who was a friend to so many, a great city icon, and a just a terrific leader and just a wonderful, wonderful individual who we recently lost. So please join us in a moment of silence. >> Thank you. >> Thank you chaplain and thank you mayor. And for the record, representative Malonado Rocha was also present at 10:03 when the meeting convened and mayor prom Chavez join the meeting at 10:06. That brings us to public comment this morning. We don't have anyone signed up for for comment on regular agenda items. So that brings us to call to the public. The El Paso City Council is a local government body charged with serving the citizens and the meetings must be focused on the meeting at charge. City council meetings are public meetings under the Texas Open Meetings Act. Public comment is an accommodation and not a requirement of city council. All persons in attendance are expected to display civility and decorum that is respectful to other persons without the use of insulting, profane, threatening, or abusive language. Public comment will not be used for personal attacks, nor may any member of the public use this forum for political statements or campaigning. Please note that during call to the public, the city council may not deliberate or decide any subject that is not on the agenda. However, council may propose that a topic brought forth be posted on a future agenda. This morning, we have four members of the public that signed up to speak. The first person is Miss Elizabeth Crawford. Her topic is Hanukkah and abortion. Good morning, Miss Crawford. You have three minutes. >> Thank you. Good morning. Thank you. Um, I'd like to read a quote from Stephen Hawking, the scientist and atheist. His quote was, "Religion is a fairy story for people afraid of the dark." To which John Lennox, who is an Irish mathematician, bioeth ethicist, a Christian from the University of Oxford, responded, "Atheism is a fairy tale for people afraid of the light. Our most basic beliefs about God and life manifest themselves in crisis situations. The woman who is in an unexpected unwanted crisis pregnancy if she believes there is not a God who sees and cares will very possibly run to an abortion center to eliminate that so-called clump of cells. The woman in that same situation who believes in her heart that there is a God who sees, knows, and cares will choose to trust God and obey even if it means a damaged reputation or economic hardship. She knows that the life of that little one is created in God's image and worth every bit of sacrifice. One of my favorite Advent carols is entitled Okamok Emanuel. It's presented as a cry of the Jews in what we refer to as the 400 silent years between Malachi and Matthew. The account of Hanukkah reminds us that though God was in many ways silent in those years, though he seemed absent, he was still very much at work behind the scenes. The Lord providentially saved the Jews from destruction during the times of Mcabes. His sparing of the Hebrews in these perilous days paved the way for the advent of the Messiah, Jesus, the promised savior about 170 years later. In John 10, we're told of Jesus in Jerusalem in the temple at the feast of dedication, which is Hanukkah. In that event, Jesus spoke of those who follow him as being the light of the world. He said, "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me, and I give unto them eternal life, and they shall never perish, neither shall any pluck them out of my hand." As we see see the lights all around us, as we hear the music of Hanukkah, the Advent season, we are reminded that to believe in the light is to have a life transformed by that light. Jesus said, "I am the light of the world. He that follows me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." Thank you so much. Thank you, Thank you. >> The next speaker is Claudia Contra Siller and her topic is animal rights. >> Good morning. >> Hi, good morning. H I want to thank um Miss Roachcha for hosting the world cafe event and Miss Mack and everybody who was there two weeks ago so we could like discuss the qualities the next director needs to have. Also, I want to take the moment to say thank you to the past director. He was very professional and caring all the time. Uh uh animal rights are very obvious and I'm sure everybody knows what they are. To be loved, to be fed, to be cared for. And that's pretty much it. I want to discuss the next qualities the next director needs to have. Um we we made teams in the meeting we had two weeks ago and some of the words were brave. He has to have communication skills, experience with animals, fighting animal cruelty, and everything that has to do with animals. I want to set the bar very high and say to the people that are applying that that money is sacred because it's for the our animals. It's for our cats and our dogs. And the next director needs to have the qualities to lead the biggest campaign of adoptions war against animal cruelty and education. Some people think that a lot of animals are going to be put to sleep at the beginning. So let's say animal services takes in all the animals and they're going to have to be put to sleep a lot. But like there's like qualifications that animal needs to have. Like the ones that are running loose, that's a definitely yes. But the ones that can stay in a home for the meantime, they needs to stay with someone that is going to foster them because the more animals animal services takes in, the more animals are going to be put to sleep. And some people think it's only at the beginning, but if the community doesn't change the way they care for the animals, it's going to be euthanasia left and right. So please, I want to encourage uh for the next director to be brave, most of all to fight animal cruelty, to team up with the El Paso Police Department, and also I want to encourage the public to always have a sharp ear and always be looking out to report animal cruelty uh active animal cruelty to 911 and to the animal cruelty unit 915212800 311 Monday through Sunday. Uh, and I want to say I love the police department and animal services. I value them a lot and I value all the leaders because there's a lot of things that uh are taking into consideration that the public eye do not see. Thank you everybody. >> Thank you. >> The next speaker is Laura Oawa Todd >> and her topic is El Paso water utilities customer deposits. Good morning. You have three minutes. >> Good morning. >> Good morning, mayor. >> Good morning, >> city council. Doesn't want to I'm advocating for all El Paso Water Utility customers. El Paso Water Utility has had my minuscule deposit of $150 for almost 10 years on my current property. I asked Google if utility companies could keep your deposit in Texas. It answered no. Utility companies in Texas generally keep your deposit indefinitely as they are required to refund it under spec specific conditions. [cough and clears throat] Your deposit must be refunded with the interest after 12 consecutive months of on-time payments or it will be applied to your final bill when you close your account. So, I contacted the PUC, Public Utility Commission, and what they told me was [cough] it was not in their hands because the city of El Paso owns the El Paso Water Utility. I then called the El Paso Water Utility to return our deposit since I have paid consistently since approximately 1994 on my current property. They told me they will only return our deposits as after we close our accounts. I told them I am a senior citizen and my account will be closed when I die because they are a monopoly and I cannot get water service anywhere else. In the meantime, El Paso Water Utilities is making money from our deposits instead of us. So sir, with all due respect, since you're working for us as citizens of El Paso, I lost my place. We need your help. and support to address the El Paso water utilities about changing their policy. I feel that after a year of consistent on-time payments to the El Paso Water Utilities, we should get our deposit money back. >> Thank you. >> Respectfully, Mayor, >> thank you. You've reached the three minutes. >> Okay. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. The final speaker is Eddie Chavez Jr. and his topic is water rates. >> Good morning. >> Good morning. >> Good morning, >> city rep manager. How you doing? I saw you the other day. I guess you didn't recognize me. [laughter] >> I don't know how you could Past Eddie. Come on. >> Anyways, before I forget, I want to tell you something. We have a famous lady that people have forgotten or overlooked. Mrs. Wally Shed, who used to I don't know, some of you know her when she used to come here. She's my adopted mom. >> I mean, she was going to come today, but she decided not to. >> But one of the things I remember, she's wrote five books. She just finished her fifth book. You have to read it. In one of the chapters, she talks about when she she just loved Jeff uh John F. Kennedy when he came to Apaso. I don't even think he was running for I think it was a senator or something. And she came and with she's as bad as me. Once you get something you got to and she's not she's not Irish, she's just German, I guess. But she went into the um I think he was staying going to make a speech at in um Cortez motel and she brought two dozen roses to give to him and but the main thing that I want to tell you is when she got there she slipped him a little note in his pocket. Put it says ask not what your country can do for you but what you can do for your country. remember all that you guys have gotten. You know, we voted you guys in, but God put you in this position because you were have special talents. So, use them, please. We need you. But anyways, enough of that. Um, next thing I'm going to talk about the water. Uh, I do want to know who's keeping an eye on the budget for the water department. You know when Tommy Gonzandes got these overhead tanks. I told him I was raised in a in a farm with my uncle sometime back. We used to have an overhead tech but just for to give pressure for the housing but you know we lived on Wickham Street and one day the water backup busted. It was only 6,000 gallons but it did so much damage. I can imagine if one of those tanks with a million gallons would break. It's just something to think about. But the budget on on the I think nobody's watching them. I don't know if city manager or the mayor go to their meetings, but I've been against them having those uh backup generators which are just sitting there. Then they cost over a million dollars. Who's going to get that when they sell it? There's a lot of things that Hey, you want to get me? I I'll do it for free. I'll go and look them over. I don't mind. I've done other things. and uh with for my city, Miss Wishette behind me and God behind me, I'll do it. Thank you all for all your service. I hope you had a good Thanksgiving. >> Thank you, Mr. Chavez. >> Thank you. >> That concludes call to the public. >> Okay, >> that brings us to the consent agenda. All matters listed under the consent agenda will be considered by city council to be routine and will be enacted by one motion unless separate discussion is requested by council members. Prior to the vote, members of the audience may ask questions regarding items on the consent agenda. When the vote has been taken, if an item has not been called out for separate discussion, the item has been approved. Council may, however, reconsider any item at any time during the meeting. Okay? >> And council for this meeting and for all council meetings, no use of personal cellular devices should take place on the day while the meeting is in session. Once you obtain the floor from the mayor, you have up to 10 minutes for debate and may speak twice per debatable debatable item. Please speak into the microphone and refrain from side conversations while the meeting is in session. For those of you joining us virtually, please mute your microphones to reduce any background noise. Mayor Prom. >> Thank you, Miss Prime. I make a motion to approve the consent agenda with no revisions. Second. >> All right, we have a motion and a second. Any discussion? Okay, Miss Brian. >> Yes, sir. The motion was made by Mayor Prom Chavez, seconded by alternate mayor prom to approve the consent agenda. On that motion, call for the vote and the voting session. And that motion passes unanimously. That brings us to page number five to the introduction of ordinances. These are items 10 to 14. Okay. Is there a motion? >> Okay. There's a motion in a second, Miss Bryant. >> Yes, sir. So, the motion was made by Representative Lemon, seconded by Mayor, alternate mayor prompo to introduce the first reading of ordinances. These are items 10 to 14. On that motion, call for the vote. in the voting session and that motion passes unanimously. >> Okay, let's take regular agenda item number 15. >> Yes, sir. Item 15 is a public hearing of an ordinance authorizing the conveyance of real property owned by the city of El Paso to Dr. Roberto Moreno for the purchase price of $130,000. such real property municipally known and numbered as 331 West Missouri in El Paso Texas. >> Okay. Good morning. Is there a motion to approve this item? >> Move to approve. >> Okay. >> Second. >> Okay. Good morning. >> Good morning. >> Would you want to walk us through your presentation? >> Absolutely. >> Sure. >> Good morning, Mayor and Council. Mary Lewis Bossa, real estate division for the record. Okay, so this property, this is for the sale of property 331, Missouri count prior council action in December of 2024. City council awarded a contract to the real estate man for the real estate management services to our broker. In September of 2025, we took this into executive to vet the surplus properties and got an approval for listing and in accordance with the Texas Local Government Code, the property was marketed for more than 30 days on multiple listing platforms. And today, we are here to seek approval for the selling of the property. It's.14 acres. It is appraised at $90,000 to the buyer, Robert, Dr. Robert Moreno for a purchase price of $130,000. Questions? >> Any questions? >> All right, Miss Brian, we have a motion in a second. >> Yes, sir. The motion was made by Representative Canal, seconded by Representative Orio to adopt the ordinance on item number 15. On that motion, call for the vote and the voting session. And that motion passes unanimously. >> Okay, let's take item number 16. >> Item 16 is a public hearing of an ordinance vacating a portion of a 60 foot drainage eastment north of Los Motis Drive and west of Interstate 10. >> Motion to approve. >> Second. >> Okay, I have a motion to second. >> Can we see the presentation on this one? >> Most definitely. Good morning. Good morning, Mr. Mayor, members of council. Kevin Smith with planning inspections. it. Will you please pull up the presentation? it. It is the presentation right under the one you have highlighted. Yes. Thank you. Okay. Appreciate that. So, this item is a request to vacate a an easement in northwest El Paso. Here's an aerial view of the uh subject property. It is a drainage easement located west of I 10 and uh north of Los Mochi. This easement does um extend into the county of El Paso in the ETJ. um that has to be done by a separate um item with the county. But the area in orange that is fully orange is the area proposed to be vacated um here in the city of El Paso. It is a 60oot drainage easement and um it is um the utilities are no longer needed um at this location and the applicant is requesting it to be vacated. Um it is approximately 69 acres in size. Here's a survey. The city plan commission did recommend unanimous approval of this as well as staff does recommend approval of this vacation. Um, and be happy to answer any questions you may have. >> Any questions on this item? >> All right. Thank you, Miss Brian. >> Okay. Appreciate it. Thank you. >> The motion was made by Mayor Proteam Chavez, seconded by Representative Nino to adopt the ordinance on item number 16. On that motion, call for the vote and the voting session. And that motion passes unanimously. >> Okay, let's take item 17. >> Item 17 is discussion and action on a resolution determining the city of El Paso's voting allocation for candidates to the El Paso Central Appraisal District Board of Directors. >> Okay. Is there a motion to approve? >> Motion to approve. >> Okay. Second. >> All right. There's no presentation on this one. It's just the allocation of votes on the central place central appraisal district. Any discussion? Okay. Miss M. >> Would the motion? >> Yes. >> Repres. >> Yes. >> Would the motion include the names of the selected people or not? >> The resolution. Yes. >> The resolution. >> Yeah. Okay. Want to represent Lima. >> Thank you, M. Yes. I think it's important to, you know, we're doing this resolution, but it's important to name the two people that received the highest number of votes and it's Tanny Berg and Jackie York. >> Jackie York. That's correct. >> All right, Miss Bryant. >> Yes, sir. The motion was ba made by representative Maldonado Rocha, seconded by Representative Lemon, and this is to approve the resolution on item 17. On that motion, call for the vote. Representative Fiero. Hi. >> Thank you, sir. And the voting session. And that motion passes unanimously. >> Okay. Let's take item number 18. Representative Chavez. >> Item 18 is discussion and action on a resolution authorizing the expenditure of district 1 discretionary funds in an amount not to exceed $5,000 to support initiative, events, and meetings for district 1. Funds will be used to support current and future programming for youth, seniors, families, athletic activities, community engagement efforts, community meetings, and other district events, including signature events. Authorization is also requested for the purchase of related items such as food and drinks, including including but not limited to water, refreshments, snacks, prizes, recognition or award items, and event supplies and materials. Events will take place at various community locations including but not limited to city parks, Doris Vandorian Library, Don Haskins Rec Center, and the Westside Regional Command Center. >> Motion to approve. >> Second. >> All right. Any further discussion on item number 18. >> Okay, Miss Prime. >> Yes, sir. The motion was made by Mayor Pro Tim Chavez, seconded by Representative Nino to approve the resolution on item 18. On that motion, call for the vote and the voting session. And that motion passes unanimously. >> Okay, let's take item number 19. Item 19 is discussion and action to authorize the expenditure of district 5 discretionary funds in an amount not to exceed $5,000 for initial costs related to the new adopt a street program which serves a municipal purpose of improving the visual impression of the community and promoting community interest in the beautifification of the city of El Paso. This is Representative Nino's item. >> Represent Nino. >> Motion to approve. Second. All right, >> there's a motion and a second. Any further discussion on item number 19? All right. Call for the vote, Miss Prime. >> Yes. The motion was made by Representative Nino, seconded by Representative Borjo to approve item 19. On that motion, call for the vote. And the voting session and that motion passes unanimously. >> Okay, let's take item number 20. Item 20 is discussion and action on agreement number 2022-0924 with target solutions learning LLC DBA Vector Solutions to provide Vector Solutions software a training management system each fiscal year as governed by the city council's approval of the annual city budget. >> Okay. Is there a motion to approve this item? >> Move to approve. >> Second. >> Okay. Any further discussion? There's no presentation. Okay. Miss Prime. >> Yes, sir. The item was the motion was made by Representative Ganales, seconded by alternate mayor promp to approve item 20. On that motion, call for the vote. Voting session is open. in the voting session and that motion passes unanimously. >> Okay, let's take item number 21 please. >> Item 21 is discussion and action on the award of solicitation 2025-0510R stop loss to Etna Life Insurance Company for a one-year term and an estimated award of 5,987,728. >> Motion approved. >> Second. >> Okay, there's a motion in a second. Uh, Representative Ato, >> can can we just get an explanation on what this is? I was looking through the backup and there's no presentation. So, because I'm seeing something about an in an inadequate competition survey was conducted. So, if I could just have more more information on this, I'd appreciate it. >> Hi. Yes, good morning. >> Good morning. >> Paula Salas with purchasing and strategic sourcing. Yes, there was an inadequate competition survey. We only receive two proposals and our process is if we get any or under uh three proposals or bids we have to do the inadequate competition survey just to see why propos or offerers did not submit their offer. So we reach out to a number of group of the invitees that we send it out to and um the results are in the memo. Did you have additional questions on that? >> Um okay. So it was Mwin's group and Etna that that submitted something >> right. We just had two uh proposals. >> And I guess what I'm not fully >> understanding is why didn't you get to three? >> Good morning Garcia with purchasing and strategic sourcing department. So our process it is to contact those viewers that review the solicitation when it was posted. Uh so we survey them to see why they didn't get to respond to our solicitation. So we cannot really predict how many were gonna how many responses we're going to get. So after we're just trying to see what preventing them from responding to our solicitation. Yeah, I'd be curious to know more information on this just because last year um when we awarded the contract to Etna for I forget I think it was another five years Blue Cross Blue Shield was disqualified on what I thought was >> it was a different uh solicitation. and it was I I totally get it, but it's still insurance, right? And so I'm I'm thinking that >> um I thought it was a technicality how Bluec Cross was was disqualified. >> And so I I didn't I I'm wondering if that prevented them from also bidding on this or others just because of what happened last year. And and I voted against the the contract for Etna. I don't think they provide good service. Um, I I could go on and on and on, but I'm I'm just kind of wondering if we we kind of messed up relationships and that's why we only got two solicitations instead of at least three. >> Okay. Yes. Uh, under your in your backup, you also have the view list of uh the vendors or suppliers that were uh reviewing the solicitation and I don't see them uh as uh one of the viewers either. So, >> right. Yeah, I I see them. But I'm just wonder like is this more of a purchasing issue again that people are not going through our process because it's so complicated and I I think we're going to learn a lot with the consultant and in the coming months but just overall I I haven't been satisfied for it now for a while. So um this gives me some better context on what happened here. So appreciate it. Thank you >> representative Canales. >> Thank you, Mayor. Yeah, I'll just say for what it's worth, Blue Cross Blue Cross Blue Shield doesn't provide stop-loss insurance for large providers, only small providers. So, this is outside of their uh outside of their business. Um, I mean, I think there's all kinds of reasons why someone might not bid on a stop-loss insurance policy for a large organization. I think there's a handful of uh insurance companies that provide that kind of service. Is that correct? I mean, you know, there's Sigma and Berkshire Haway and Etna and SE, you know, a few, but not, you know, it's large companies that can ensure against this kind of larger potential claim that comes through stop-loss. I mean, am I am I off base, Miss Wiggins? >> Good morning. >> Good morning. Mary Wiggins, uh, chief human resources officer. And just to give a little bit further explanation, you know, stop loss is like a totally different animal. Um, so generally for most of our insuranceances, we go out for three to five years. I mean, it's a lot of work to go through an RFP. Um, so we we do generally do them for longer terms of time, but for this particular one, and we used to do it for stop-loss, but for this particular one, um, our consultants have recommended that we go out every year because it is it's very isolated. There aren't that many companies that do it. And so because there aren't that many companies, then our rates tend to be sometimes a little bit higher. So we go out and we want to be more competitive. If we do five years, [clears throat] then the the then they can just keep going up in rates every year. So we go through an RFP process every year to try and get competitive rates and to get them down. Um we were, you know, very lucky this year that they did pass through a 0% um increase. Uh, and I can tell you in my history of doing this, I've never seen it. Um, but you're you're you're right. There aren't that many that that that bid on it, you know, but it's it's kind of a not as not all insuranceances do it and it's even more difficult if they're not doing your insurance. Um, it is not as fluid as if they are, if that makes sense. So, for example, um, of course, Etna is going to bid their insurance company because it's more seamless. other companies it's more difficult so it's probably going to cost a little bit more because they're a third party vendor coming in to provide this service. Not sure if that gives you any more context but >> yeah I guess maybe gosh for anyone from the public who's interested in insurance and wants to understand what we're doing like stop loss insurance uh the city is a self-funded >> uh provides self-unded insurance. So >> correct, >> when our employees have a, you know, medical claim, um, the city is paying out that claim. This stop, this stop-loss insurance protects us against a large catastrophic claim, right? If if an employee had suddenly $5 million in medical expenses, um, this insurance kicks into above a certain threshold so that the city isn't on the hook for paying the entirety of the of the claim. Correct. So Etna, for example, is the employees insurance. This that we're awarding is our insurance. So because we're self-funded, we're paying all the claims. And so this is setting a cap as to what we're going to pay for that each individual employee out of pocket. So it's just kind of it's us having that insurance policy that that we're not going to pay over a certain amount. >> And our stop-loss insurance is employee by employee. It's not an aggregate policy. Correct. Do we is it an aggregate stop-loss policy? >> Well, it's definitely a it's a specific for 400,000. I can't remember if it's an aggregate as well, but I know that it's the specific as well. Specific is 400,000. >> And we can choose our different deductible levels. And so, um, in the past couple of years, we actually have raised the deductible amount to be able to be able to handle the increase in premiums. >> Right. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Thanks, Mayor. And yeah, and and uh Mary to have a 0% increase during times like this. That's incredible. >> Correct. >> I mean, it's usually double digits. >> Absolutely. >> At least. >> Absolutely. >> Okay. >> So, we have a motion and a second on item number 21. Any further discussion? >> Thank you. >> All right, Miss Bryant. >> Yes, sir. The motion was made by alternate mayor prompto, seconded by representative lemon to award the solicitation on item 21. On that motion, call for the vote and the voting session. And that motion passes unanimously. Council, is there a motion to adjurnn? >> Some moved. >> Second. >> There's a motion and a second to adjurnn the regular city council meeting. All in favor? >> I. Anyone opposed? And the regular city council meeting for Tuesday, December 2nd, 2025 is adjourned at 10:40 a.m. Council, please remember we have mass transit at 11:30. >> We did Good afternoon, Miss Bryant. I think we're ready. >> Yes, Mayor. >> We are ready to go. Good morning. >> This is a meeting of the El Paso Mass Transit Department board for Tuesday, December 2nd, 2025. It is 11:30 a.m. Present and presiding is board chair Johnson. Also present in chambers are board members Chavez, ADO, Maldonado, Rocha, Bart Trejo, Fiero, Lemon, and Canales. We do not have any public comment. >> Okay. >> So, all matters listed under the consent agenda will be considered by Mass Transit Department board to be routine and will be enacted by one motion unless separate discussion is requested by members of the P by me board members prior to the vote. Members of the audience may ask questions regarding items on the consent agenda. When the vote has been taken, if an item has not been called out for separate discussion, the item has been approved. The Mass Transit Department board may however reconsider any item at any time during the meeting. The one item on the consent agenda are the minutes. >> Okay. Is there a motion to approve the consent? >> Second. >> All right. There's a motion and second, Miss Nadis. Call for the vote. >> And we do have a a motion made by board member Lemon, seconded by board member Fiero. And this is to approve the consent agenda. Voting session is open and board member Nino joined the meeting at 11:32 a.m. >> Thank you, sir. >> The voting session has closed and the item the consent agenda has been approved unanimously. >> Okay. >> Is that number two? Item number two is item number number three, sorry sir. >> Number three. Okay. >> It's the presentation and discussion of Sun Metro Sun Metro's plan systemwide route restructure, Sun Metro Rising and scheduled for implementation in June 2026. And this is the presentation. >> Okay. Good afternoon. >> Mayor, city council, >> director for public transportation uh for the city of El Paso. Can I pull up the >> So today I'm here with Ulissiz Hernandez from Nelson Niggar. They are the ones that did helped us get put this all together and do a lot of the um analysis and come up with the P plan based upon the direction and guidance that that we gave him to make sure that we're moving forward for the to do better in transit for um for the city of El Paso. So this this is this is from Nelson Icon. >> Okay. So today I would like to update you on the fixed route um optima optimization endeavor Sunmetro Rising. A year and a month ago from today the mass transit board approved Sun Metro Rising the first ever complete redesign of the network. So today what I want to talk about is projected goals, timelines, next and our next steps, recommendations and the way ahead and then finally cover the benefits and impacts that it has. This whole whole um project has the instate or the goal is to put an operation into operational system that reduces travel times, connection times and streamlines routes. This is what we call optimization in in transit. And here's the key. This plan had to be done without increasing any financial responsibilities or any other resources. So everything we got now holds for this that that is the key um for for this optimization. And in for in order for this automation to come to fruition um four project goals had to be met. analyze, engage, redesign, and develop. So, we analyze evolving ridership to understand ridership and how we're going to adjust that in the future. We engaged with riders, stakeholders, and the Sun Metro staff in person to ensure that that information can be incorporated, which I think was key. And after those two things were done, we had to do the actual redesign. Thank you, Nelson Niggar. And the development framework. So, so that's what how we we moved ahead. As you can see in this timeline, it's lengthy process that involves analyzation and identifying strengths and requirements coupled with the best practices and community outreach to get this initial state of the system report which was briefed to the mass transit board on two August of 2022. This was the finishing of the initial analysis process. Sorry, this was the finishing of the initial analysis process um to get us moving um into the next phase that is the um state of the system report. It was on 7 November 2023 that the mass transit board approved some metro rising plan. This was a major hurdle, a major milestone that we had to get through to to keep moving forward. And the next thing we had to do was look at title six. And title six is a FTA requirement that ensures that everything we're doing is fair. And so you say, "Hey, what's fair?" Um, it's so it does not disproportionately affect members of a group. The group that we're talking about here is race, color, national origin, or minorities. That's what we're covering. So when we did this plan, we had to make sure we took in consideration everybody, their geographical location, and and who they are as a whole, and make it fair so it's not disproportionate. So we are required to do a major service change analysis that is if you change more than 30% of the overall system or 30% of an individual route right so that's what we have to do and we have to submit that that to FTA but we didn't just do that we went beyond that just to make sure that we are taking into consideration all of the citizens in in El Paso and and all of the riders so we went further and did a disproportionality analysis which goes from a quarter of a uh from any route. Um and there can't be more than 25% of a disadvantage increase. So, we also did that one. And so, we submit that to FTA. FTA doesn't take that and start looking over it right away. The way that FTA works is they don't necessarily tell us what to do. They more tell us what we can't do and give us guidelines of of of where we're going. So, when we get our next audit, probably in 2026, um they'll start to look at that and see make sure that we follow follow the process. It's key because if we didn't follow the process, we're we'd have to go back and and do a restart to make sure that those things happen. So, we did that and submitted. So, our key strengths or the backbone of the network is the Brio system. You know, the Brio system is already streamlined going down the the major corridors. About 50% of our riders use the Brios, right? And so that's about 3.5 million a year. But now what we have to do with this optimization, we have to look at the other 50% of the riders and the routes that they take and make sure those routes are streamlined and and what we call optimized, right? And and so that's that's the focus of what we're what we're doing here. So you can see the chart on the the right and that writership has increased since um CO. In fact, before COVID, we're about nine million a year and now we're at 6.9 million a year. The transit industry is recovering at 50%. At 50%. So, all the stuff we're doing now helps us increase and we're actually increasing faster. Our ridership is outpacing the industry by 26%. So, our ridership is coming back 26% faster than the industry. And that's why it's so important we get this done and set a baseline so we have the the proper foundation to move forward to to the future. Some of our key challenges was reducing frequency, removing indirect and inefficient routes. We also looked at timelines for when the routes ended so we can extend service later into the evening and we looked at adding some service to Sunday. This is the feedback that we received from the community, which is a key part of what we're doing because we want to make sure that we are are supporting our constituents as needed. We received positive feedback um about the proposed route changes because people want to get to where they're going quicker, faster, and that that is what we're trying to do with this Sun Metro Rising. So, they also said keep the Brios because they're already working. and they're going up and down the corridors getting us to where we we need to go and improve bus stops and Sunday service which all of this is in the plan like the community said this is what we need that's what we incorporated as you can see the recommendations from Nelson Nyiggar align with the community as the design and the input that was put in from Sun Metro giving them guidance to make sure that all this was put in into the plan um we're going to work on all of them but we're going to start with the ones that we could make a direct impact on right to lay the to lay the foundation. So, we're initially looking at um route network s simply simplifying route networks uh more frequency bus stop improvements and the microtransit pilot program that we're we're we're going to be implementing with this. And this is the first microtransit program that in that that we know of that takes over what where routes used to be making it more efficient and and financially responsible by adding the the microtransit in. So the proposed network design simplifies service gives us straighter more direct routes. Let me give you an example of that. During the the weekdays, what a long route is is 45 minutes. That's what we consider a long route. During the weekdays before, we had 34 routes that were 72 minutes. Under this plan, we only have 13 routes that are 58 minutes in that long category. So, we're get breaking it, squeezing it down so we can get people to where they need to get to be faster. On the weekends, we had 40 routes that were 73 minutes and under the new one, we'll have 14 that are 57. So again, we're we're definitely reducing that that time, but we also want the buses to come more often and we want less terminal time waiting for connections at at the terminal and and we want to reduce end toend travel times, which we're going from 58 minutes to 42 minutes. So we're also decreasing that. Currently, we have 52 routes. At peak time, there's 100 buses on on the on the streets of El Paso at any given time. And again the frequency is is 58 minutes. But this is the problem set that that the network design has to improve. This is what we we hired Nelson Nygarda to help us look at this holistically to to figure this all out. So the new network reduces routes by 13. It requires two less buses and it reduces the frequency by 16 minutes. That's the overall picture of it. So when we go to this this next page right here, we have to ask ourselves what is the real question? How does the proposed network affect the people? We're talking about frequency, stops, terminals, and and connections. So you can see there on the chart on the right that the frequency improves for 95.3% of our riders and there's no change for 3.9. So that's 99.2%. Good or no change? good or no change. But there are going to be some people who don't reap the full benefits. So if you look at the the 08% have to walk five to 15 minutes to get to a bus stop longer than they would have in in the originally. Um so even though it's a small number that's we we focus down on that, but we're removing the stops that have low ridership as you could see. And we're also um ensuring that new and existing stops are close and accessible, meaning not more than five to to 15 minutes away to support the bus frequency. If you have more stops, the bus stops more. It takes longer to get where where you're going. So, there has to be a balance of where the stops are at, how many there are, and how far it takes to get people to get there and impact the lowest amount of people that it possibly can to to optimize. That that was that was the goal. and and you know the the number one priority of everybody that we surveyed said we want to get to where we're going faster, right? And and this does it. This does it. So the bus stop analysis that we we looked at focused a lot on um um its concerns on access right to include individuals with mobility device. In this plan, we will ensure that pathways from the from travel of deactivated stops to activated stops are are complete and ADA compliances is there for the entire pathway. That means if you use a mobility device and you need to curb cut or the curb wasn't even as you can see in the picture here. Um, we fix those. So you can go from the old point A to the new point A bus stop and no matter what your condition is, you you'll be able to get there and and all the infrastructure will be be in place. There were originally 27 and today there's only six remaining. So we're on track to get this done by the end of December. And so so when we when we plan to launch this is is June. So all all these curb cuts and stuff will be done by then. The last inerson public outreach of four was recently completed. It was conducted at the bus terminals. And what we did is we went and we we set up poster boards so you could see the changes in the route. We engaged all the riders when they're coming off the bus and and getting on the bus or at the terminal to to get their feedback on what they thought about the route. So, we're talking to the actual people who go on the routes. That that that's what we did. In the future, um, we're also going to have people on the buses and at at terminals from 26 September to to June 26. And so the purpose of that is to take bus drivers, outreach, different different um divisions of Sun Metro and flood the transportation system, be at all the terminals, be on all the buses, be on every single route. The ideal is to catch every rider between now and then. So, so if there's a terminal, we're going to get it. If there's a route, we're going to get it. We're not going to do it one time. We're going to do it multiple multiple times until we get it. We're going to have like 30 people work working on this over the months to make sure we catch all the riders by individual before the time of of execution. So the Sun Metro riders feedback now mirror the the the feedback that we got at the beginning like what do you want at the beginning we asked them what do you want and they said hey here's what we want and so we started this this project and went through it and we went back and talked to them again and they said hey we still want the same thing we want in increased frequency want the buses to come quicker we want improved connections and less time at the the the transfer we want um longer hours of service. And in in this Sun Metro Horizon program, 20 of the 39 routes will have extended hours by approximately uh 2 hours and then there'll be six routes running um until about 10:30 11:00 on top of that. So, we're making the changes that that the constituents want. The other concerns were the reassessment. So, when we put this plan in place, which we always do, we'll continue to reassess, but we're going to do a big reassessment in about 6 months and make sure all the stops are in the right place, make sure the connections are right, make sure all the timing is right, and we'll adjust because this isn't set in stone forever. Like, we'll adjust as the conditions continue to change, but we're going to be do a big one about 6 months after um implementation. So the other platforms that we used um were digital and physical. You know, we use the Sunmet Metro website. We used the Sunmet Metro Ride app and and digital monitors at at terminals. We also use social platforms uh like like um um Facebook and X. We also use newspapers and flyers and fra frame uh A-frames and posters on the buses and at shelters. So, we tried to make the net as wide as we could to catch everybody that we could. And again, we're going to catch the goal is to catch every individual from here until to implementation in person above and beyond the the the other forms of communication. Um, so we have the the way ahead and the way ahead, you know, we're going to continue to prove bus stops and enhanced shelters and so we have $500,000 every year annually set to do that. We just have to make sure that we get with the the contractors and the capacity that they have can meet the dollars that we have to continue on that. Um and then um the midterm we're going to we have to keep looking at extending routes and and and potentially go later at night and and look at at at Sunday um routes. And then in the end we have to look at the population the growth of the city and be prepared to move from a baseline to move from a baseline to to continue to um optimize what what we have. And so this is the first time this is the first time that this has been done um in the city of of El Paso. So we put put a lot of work into this and we we crossed tees and and dotted eyes and and and we're ready to go. And this right here will get people to where they want to go faster, which was their main concern. and we'll do it being financially and operationally responsible, making sure that we're taking care of the the the funding and being good good stewards of the this the taxpayers dollars. And so that that's what I have for you today on this subject. Um subject to your questions. >> Uh Representative um Vier. >> Thank you, Mayor Colonel. Congratulations. I mean, this is amazing that um your team has reestablished writership so rapidly and even above the national average. You know, we keep hearing that people in El Paso don't like to travel on the our public transit for whatever reason. This shows that there's a wrership. This shows when when you when you're attentive to the needs that that people will use the public transportation. So, thank you to you and your team. I I think it's the objective is about uh ear uh ear being ear earlier later more available in Sundays and um getting to where you want to go quicker. I it means a lot and but remind me again how you said you you surveyed the writers. >> So actually I I will let Nelson Nygar come up. >> No, I want to hear I want to hear it. No, not really. No, please. >> No, no, [laughter] I'm good. I got it. I was just trying to give him >> We want to hear Nelson too, please. No, no please. >> So, so we we surveyed the riders by actually going out and and talking to the riders. So, we set up at the at the terminals. >> So, these are physical >> these are physical face to face uh um uh assessments that we're that we're getting to make sure that that we know exactly what it is. And >> it was nothing online. It wasn't a survey as people walking that because I think that's important. That's really important. And you know, I saw Miss Max's eyes light up when you said were talking about being fiscally conservative and meeting those goals, but I did see her frown a little bit when you said um 99.2%. So, I'm sure she'll she'll follow up with you on that. >> That that was 99.2% of the riders either have good or better or same service. >> You know, Miss Mac, it's only 100%. >> We're going to get there. >> We [laughter] going we going to keep >> Colonel. Thank you so much. As much as we can. Thank you, mayor. >> Representative Chavez. >> Thank you, Mayor. Thank you, Anthony, for the presentation. I know that we've gone through it in my office in the past. I was at the transit center on Osborne when you were presenting it to the community as well. And I know that we need to talk a little bit more about this. Um, I am a little bit concerned only because district one is the most effective out of the eight districts. And I know that you've done a great job in terms of outreach like we've uh just discussed. Um yet I can't help but drive past those bus stops that are going to be discontinued, you know, in the coming months and I see people there all the time and I know that your team has done a great job, but I constantly stop myself from getting out myself and saying, "Hey, did you know this isn't going to be a stop anymore because I just want to make sure that people are going to be taken care of because of the the distance between that bus stop and the one that's going to be the next one that they're going to have to use." Now, um, hypothetically, let's just say that, um, in this specific area that I'm thinking about, there's a high school and and people that I frequently see there. What would be the the the chances that we deactivate a bus stop anywhere in the city that possibly needs to be activated again? Would that be even an option or or not at all? >> So, for sure, it's an option. So when we put this in place, we're going to do in six months, we're going to do o overall comprehensive assessment on what we need to to adjust, but we have the ability to adjust along the way. So if we put this in into place and all of a sudden there's there's a a a increase in concerns in in one area, we'll send the the the planning team out to go and look at that and figure out what we can do about that. And so I would I would just say the answer is yes. The answer is yes. But everything costs. So every move we make cost and then you have to have the connections all go. So it's not like a one simple decision changes has a chain reaction in the the the whole plan. Not the whole plan but the the ridership and the the connections. So we will always look at that. We always look at how we can continue to improve. Yes, we will look at look at this under the the the glass eye of what I just explained >> and and I appreciate it, but of course we want to continue being cost-effective and reduce those route times for our community as a whole. But I I appreciate you even considering the fact that maybe there's a possibility of >> Well, it's it's more than maybe we we will look at it for sure. The the maybe part comes in of which ones we we can change. >> Okay, I appreciate that. What can we do in the meantime? because um I know that in my conversations with you, you talked about uh deploying this new plan. When when is it going to take place? >> So, we originally planned on deploying it like in February, but then we went back and looked because we continually adjust the plan and we said we probably shouldn't do that in the middle of school year and so we pushed it back to June for for execution to make sure that we're taking in consideration everything that's happening in the community and and a big part of our ridership. I >> I think that's a great idea. In the meantime, um would it be possible for you to visit our district uh meetings maybe and and talk about the plan directly to constituents? >> Yeah. When if if you guys ever want me or or one of my team members to come and talk like we've been to some on some of your meetings for different occasions, but we'll always come like I'm more than glad to come and spread the word to make sure everybody's on the same sheet of music. >> Okay. Have you done any outreach to high schools in like you know maybe sending them this information or or going to their their schools specifically to talk about the new changes in the routes around those. >> So we have not done that but that is an excellent idea and we can incorporate that into the to the outreach. Um >> yeah I think that's a good idea. I see a lot of uh high schoolers you know accessing buses um to and from school. So, that might be a a good idea. Thank you, Anthony. I um >> So, I will I will we'll set up a schedule and then we'll get back to you and let you and inform you of the schedule, not just you, but but everybody of when we're going to get to the high schools. >> Okay. Um I appreciate it and I appreciate all the outreach that you're doing. Thank you. >> Thank you, ma'am. >> Represent Nino. >> Thank you, Mayor, and thank you, Colonel Daiser, as well. I know that I was briefed and I had a lot of different questions and we went over and a lot of those concerns were also addressed. Um, and I know that, you know, we're talking about the there's been conversation about the housing plan and the low-income housing tax credits. And I know that transportation has been a part of that conversation as well. And um, I'm looking forward to even the further conversations of the microtransit being piloted in district 5. Can you kind of touch base of how that would be structured and how that would work? So, how microtransit works is you'll be able to call in or use our app or or log in on the computer and and book a ride and that ride will come to the what we call a super stop. So, it'll be a stop near your location near your house and then the microtransit vehicle will take you if it's within that area to that to that destination. If it's outside of that area, it'll take you to the transit terminal and there you would transfer to a bus to go go to where you need. And so that's a brief overview of how that works. Did that >> Yeah. No, that's great. And and the reason why I cover this is because I know when I look at the map in district 5, there's a lot of the actual boundary that will be disactivated, but it gets reactivated through this microtransit. So people are still going to be connected even further and overall the city is going to be able to have faster response time. So I'm grateful for you and the team and also our consulting for working on this and looking forward to supporting you all even further and connecting us even further. >> Thank you so much. >> Represent Canalis. >> Thank you mayor. Um yeah first of all thank you to Claudia and the team who came out to a community group who had requested some more information uh at Suva. They they really really appreciated the the presentation um and gave your team some Thanksgiving lunch. So, that was nice. >> Yeah, we're always available if anybody needs us. We're we're we're we'll be there. >> But yeah, um you know, we we hear all the time from constituents that they want us to be critically evaluating all of our programs, looking for efficiencies. That's exactly what this analysis is. Um and I think uh you know we'll of course have to see how implementation plays out but I I don't foresee any situation where this will lead to uh worse travel times for people. Uh I think uh overall this is going to be a great help to the to the system and make sure that the routes are running quickly and uh reliably so people know when their bus is coming and they can predict those headways really really closely. Um, so thank you all for the work and you know I wanted to specifically say thank you to the Nelson Niger team who has been working with us on this for a long time and you know we've we've seen them here uh for the last couple of years now and I think they've put together an excellent plan to implement. Um you have said in the past that uh in the meanwhile a good option for people is to look at the interactive map that's online. Can you share a little bit more information again about that interactive map and tell people where they can go? >> Yeah, this time I'm gonna let Claudia come up and and talk about the the interactive map. [laughter] >> Okay, Ulyses will do. >> Yeah, I saw um I saw this material. It's online in the city portal uh in the appendix there is uh a map for each of the districts and there is a link there um where every every people everybody from from El Paso can go there. We also have um as part of this project we implemented a website. So in this website the it will still deactivate for the next foreseeable future and I guess once we transfer that to smetro uh cla will implement it with the team also in the in their portal so it will be available >> and again that's so that any member of the public can look at their bus stops that they use and see if they will be affected by this. uh if for example one of those bus stops is being uh removed they'll be able to see the walking time to the nearest bus stop and and the information related to the change in their routes. Is that correct? >> Yeah, that's correct. And they can even see uh what's the boardings that that stop used to have so that they understand what's the reason behind uh the selection uh as being a stop deactivated and then the rest of the stops they will see which one is the closer to them. So they can even get the data like if they want to do analysis on their own that is there is uh it's open data. >> Okay. Yeah. So I guess any constituent who uh happens to tune in to the mass transit board meetings uh feel free to reach out >> to my office. I'm sure the rest of the council feels the same and we're happy to direct people or to Sun Metro. >> Yes. Uh and we're happy to direct people to those resources so that they're able to see how this will into into the future impact uh their their travel on Symmetra >> and I was just told it's already on our website so people can already start to look at that in in advance. >> All right. Thank you. >> Thank you repres. >> Thank you mayor. I really appreciate when we are looking at efficiencies and seeing how we could improve and you know we really went in depth when I had this briefing and I've been thinking about this a lot where there's a lot of very intentional things that you're doing this presentation is very welldeveloped I'm very um impressed with it and I I really appreciate it but I I kind of want to talk about unintended consequences on making these changes and and I think you have answers to pretty much everything cuz everything that I've thrown at you, you always kind of say, "Okay, well, we could do this or we could move in in this direction." So, I'm going to ask in in those um in that same vein of of of questioning. So on the 198 that will have longer wait times in terms of walking, having to do a 5 to 15 minute drive, do we have an idea of how many of those people might have mobility issues or if they're elderly? >> Um, so we do have I don't have that that information with me. Um, but we know how many people use mobility devices because when you kneel the bus or if you you lower the ramp or or whatnot, then it the bus counts that. So, at each stop, we know like who's getting on the bus, whether they have a mobility device or not. And so, all that was taken into consideration. I I don't know their names or anything like that. >> Right. But that um so I guess can you say with certainty that the 198 that will have to travel longer to a bus stop do not have any mobility issues based on the data that you have from your buses? >> No, no, no. Some some of them will have mobility devices, but >> the way that I look at it is whether they have mobility devices or not, the pathway from the old stop to the new stop should be taken care of because somebody might have a disability and might have a mobility device to to use. That's why for the last year, year and a half, we've been working with C and the contractors to make sure that we're doing curb cuts for everyone along the way. We think we did a thorough analysis to find that and and address that. But again, after we get started, if someone says, "I do not have a pathway from here to there. I have $500,000 a year to keep working on this and keep improving it." So just because we start this, it doesn't mean it's over. This is a continual process that needs updated and looked at all the time. And I I got Claudia and her whole planning team continuing to look at this as we as we go through. >> Okay. >> Hopefully that answered your question. >> It it does. And I guess um one one thing is doing the curb cuts, but then the other part is the maintenance, right? Because there could be rocks in the pathway or anything like that. So what is the plan for maintenance on these paths to a 15-minute stop? >> So we do the the maintenance at the bus stops, but obviously we can't like run down the street and do maintenance on on all of them. That's not really how it works. Um but we do do the maintenance at around the bus stops and all the curb cuts. So the accessibility right there will be taken care of. >> But then if they can get there, it kind of it's kind of a mood point, right? Just cuz I'm thinking a lot about what is happening on Dyer and Persian and I brought this up with you >> where under the train there's the new Brio station that's being built there, but all over Dyer on the sidewalk there is trash all the time. There are broken bottles. There are rocks. There are just different things that I have found and my constituents have been asking for the cleanup. We've been pointing fingers at Union Pacific and then it's the city and then it's water or it's textile, you know, and and we still don't have that path. So, if somebody is using a wheelchair and they're coming down dire to go to the burri, they're not going to be able to make it or they're going to have to get on the street. And and so that's where I'm kind of wondering where it's great to put this infrastructure in in terms of better sidewalks, curb cuts, and all that, but if there are going to be objects in the way and they can't make it, well, then how are they going to get there? >> Yeah. So, so I would just say that the pathways to and from the bus stops, like we checked those and made sure if the curbs were like this, that they were fixed and they were like this. On a daily basis though, if someone throws a bottle out the window and it lands on the sidewalk like in in that pathway, like there are other mechanisms in the city for cleaning the streets and all that that it's not my department, so I I don't really want to speak on that, but I'm you're more than welcome to talk to who >> Yeah, we're going to Well, it's Nick. We have both, you know, our median crew who are responsible for some of those areas as well as the street sweepers and others. serve just as the team to send someone out and we'll get some sense of what our strategy might be. I think we talked about that last week regarding some weeds and some other things as well. So, we'll coordinate to make sure we have an overall plan to make sure we're paying attention to it and if there's some opportunity for reporting to make sure that um there is no issue for people trying to assess that we can make sure that happens as well. Yeah, I appreciate that. And I I would say that this would probably be given more priority almost. And let's say in a in a monday.com request, is this something that blocks the path toward a bus stop? And it might be ADA, it might cause ADA issues. I feel like we could solve that within a day if we're able to put those requests in rather than just um take it as another request to make sure that the infrastructure that Sun Metro is installing all over the city for this will be taken into account on the maintenance side as well. >> Thank you, sir. >> Okay. And then um I guess the the the digital divide is is a worry of mine and it seems like you have that covered in terms of we're going to pass out flyers on buses just for the general public. You know I it's great that you have the website, you have the app, you have all those things. Those are things that I would personally like to use, but my grandma would not know how to even use that, right? So, if you could explain on how you're going to have posters and just more of those flyers. How often are you going to be doing the flyers? Is it going to be for just a period of months or can you can you tell me a little bit more about that? >> Yeah. So, the let me get to this page. I just want to get the dates right. So, I want to find it in this It's from It's from So, we're going to do the the flyers and put people out into the buses in the terminals starting September. So, we already kind of started. It's going to go all the way to June, right? And so, there'll be on the screens in the in the bus stops that there'll be information going up on there. There'll be people in the terminals that know and there'll be people riding the bus. So, it's going to be for that entire period of time like we we have this plan to to blanket everybody. And again, the goal, right? Like she said, everybody's not going to use the website or did it, right? But we used all that social media to blanket as much as we could to get the information out as much as we could, right? And then the individual contact, the goal is individual with every single rider, right? That happens over the the next six months, informs anybody who's going to get on the bus and rides regularly. I I believe I use all the the the different platforms that were were available to me. And then I kind of put the icing on the cake by making sure everybody got a face to face and a conversation about their route. And we spanned over six months. So we're going to catch most of our riders. I believe we're going to catch a good 90 high 90 percentile of the riders on a face to face and the community through the rest of the social media. And so so that was the plan. That was the goal. >> And and you plan on bringing us updates as it's going. >> Yeah, I can bring anytime you want to update, you know, I'll bring you bring update. In fact, >> yes, anytime you want to update, we'll bring that. >> Okay, that works. And then the one thing that I'm wondering and I know you don't have this answer with you. How many bus stops have we taken out already? Because I know that's been happening over the the course of the last few years and that's been disruptive to constituents that missed their bus stop and they're outside of this plan and the future bus stops that you're going to take out. But as we're looking at this in the next year and taking into account how we can adjust and and move back on on certain things if they're not working, I I really worry about the geography being taken into account on this because I think one thing is being efficient, but the other part is where are you taking this bus stop? So, I'll give you an example. In front of um the Bridge of the Americas, there was a bus stop on that side of of the highway that was taken out a while ago. And now the closest bus stop is across the freeway by the zoo and my constituents are scared of crossing that highway >> to get there. And so I don't want to have those situations just for efficiency because then I think that causes a safety issue. And then a lot of these constituents that live specifically in that area are elderly. So crossing across a whole highway makes it really complicated. So, if we could take that into account and make sure that it's really just on on this one street and there's not a highway here or it's going to be complicated to get there. >> So, I I totally agree agree with you and I'm going to let Claudia address some of what you said in in a second, but I want to tell you that the industry shelter standard which is part of what you're talking about is 10%. Right now, we're at 26. When we move to this much horizon, we'll be at 27%. and we have $500,000 a year to address the issues that you that you're talking about. Um, we laid a plan taking in consideration all those things um to include efficiency but also safety and all that. But the the beauty of this plan and I'll say it again is we can reassess, we can adjust, we have to put it in place first and see what's working and see what's right not. But if there's anything that you or or any of constituents think is a grave safety situation right now, if you call me, I will go address it. Like we'll send the team out and adjust it. We do that on a regular basis. But I'll let Claudia speak for a second. >> Hi, good afternoon. Claudia Garcia, assistant director for planning and development. And just to give you a little bit history on that one, those bus stops were um deactivated during the realignment of the entire area. And yes, on the past uh city council mass transit board we approve you guys approved the uh takes that mou and that those two stops there's going to be one going east and one going west are part of the stops are going to be implemented as soon as takes that that package was already submitted to Texas with the approval of the of the uh agreement and once they give us the okay uh we're going to reinstall those they they're not going to wait for the San metro rising are stops that had been on the queue for reinstallation, but we just needed to get the text that agreement back in place because now it's a new requirement for them. So that's why we need to do the agreement again and those two stops are going to be done in there. Okay, >> those will be done as soon as they get us the the green light. >> Okay, I appreciate it. Thank you. >> Thanks. >> And I just wanted to add one more thing on the outreach first that we're going to be doing. One of the things that we're going to start in this in January, we wanted to wait until the the the holidays. We're going to be installing the signage at all those stops are going to be deactivated uh due to the San Metro Rising and they're going to have the QR code with the ability to go into the interactive uh map. So, people will see where will be the closest bus stop. It will be a g their general map and they're gonna the people are going to be able to see where the stop is and whe what's going to be the next one. So those are going to be starting uh in January. >> Represent Rocha. >> Thank you. Mayor Cladio, real quick, you can answer it, Colonel. Uh are they going to be those signs going to be bilingual? >> They will. Thank you. >> Yes, we do everything in English and Spanish. >> Just wanted to share. And then I just have one question. Out of the surveys and the stops that you all did from uh doing all the riders at at all the the transit stops and other stops, how many total surveys would you say you completed? >> Do you have that by chance? Yeah, we did uh an online survey that was about 350 >> uh at the beginning of the project and then when we were first here we collected about 20 40 more like in paper because we we handed those for people that were not uh comfortable online. So great that that was about >> So you had paper options as well for those that weren't on the app or couldn't do it on a QR code. Okay, thank you very much. That's all I have here. represent Nino. >> Thank you, mayor. I have one super quick question. What happens with the infrastructure that is currently in place for the bus stops that are going to be deactivated? >> So, um, we're going to deactivate 610 bus stops. And so, I don't know if you drive around the city, you see a lot of bus stops, but there's a lot and some of them are not being used. So, we put together a plan already to remove th those bus stops. We actually are going to take them out. So, if there's a pole, eventually it's going to be gone. If there's a bench there, eventually it's going to be gone. Um, so we have a whole a whole project in place, a sub project of this to take care of that, install new new shelters and and stops and remove all the other ones so they're we don't just have stops across the city that that that are not being utilized. >> [clears throat] >> And so, >> like I said, there's 610 and and it's going to it's going to be a process, you know, because we got to get a contract, get the contractor, scope of work. We have to do all that and get it in place before we start collapsing all these. But, but the other thing, I don't want to collapse them all right away. We want to go through that process. So, we've deliberately put this in our timeline so that we can assess what's going on so we're not taking down stops we might need later. So, I'm going to leave them up for a little bit while I go through the process of getting getting whatever contract I need in place to start taking all those down or in curious contract whatever I have to do and then when we know we're not going to utilize those stops then take them down. >> And in regards of the actual like benches, what happen? I don't know if that's a question you could answer or Miss Mack. What happens with those benches that get taken off? >> Say it again. I think we turn them into property control and make sure and property control disposes of them. >> Okay. The reason I'm asking is I think it would be great if we could somehow maybe salvage some that might be in great condition and possibly look at putting them in different parks that might need a bench or two. I don't know if that's something that we could look into, but I'm just thinking of the infrastructure of what could possibly happen with some of those. >> I I just want to make sure are you're not talking about Sun Metro benches. You know, there's a contract in place with different franchises to advertise and those benches. Are you talking about those benches or >> No, I'm talking about our bus stops doing our actual shops with shelters. Yes. Stops. Yeah. So, so those can be repurposed. >> Okay. Um I think they've been repurposed a couple times in the past um for for different um departments, but there is a step in the process with with property control where you can get it before it's disposed of one way or another. So there there is a system in place through property control that helps us take care of that a and allows other departments to go and get get that whether it be a desk, a bench stop or whatever it is. So there's already a a process in place. Okay. All right. No further questions. Thank you. >> Any further questions for Mr. Anthony? >> Great presentation and we're going to be watching you along the timeline and the next steps. Very good. >> Thank you. Thanks so much. >> All right, Miss Natis number item number four. Item number four is discussion and action to issue a purchase order for solicitation 2025-0133 TVMS and validators to Flowird America Incorporated, the sole authorized distributor and provider for FlowBird Axial validators, strata ticket vending machines and Flowird software support and maintenance for a term of three years for an estimated amount of 2,219,9 995.49. >> Mayor, I make a motion to approve this item. This is a sole source um authorized distributor. >> Okay. >> All right. There's a motion and a second. Is there further discussion on this item? All right. Hearing none, seeing none, Miss Nadis, please call for the vote. >> I have a motion made by board member Lemon, seconded by board member Nino Pierro. There you go. By board member Pierro. And this is to approve item number four. >> Voting session is open. >> Thank you ma'am. >> The voting session is closed and the item has been approved unanimously. >> That's the last item. Sorry. Is there a motion to adjurnn? >> So move. >> Second. The BA Mass Transit Department board meeting for December the 2nd has is is adjourned at 12:19 p.m. >> Thank you. >> Thank you, Miss Nunes. >> We are done. >> Great job everyone. 12:30 minutes.