The Smithville City Council discussed affordable housing at its Oct. 13 meeting but took no action. Councilman Brandon Dunham said the city should address the gap between local earnings and housing costs. He said rent in Smithville was more expensive than in Austin when he moved back, and that restaurant workers and others earn significantly less in Smithville.
City Manager Trey Jobs said the city will not refund disputed fees collected to support the Smithville Volunteer Fire Department, according to city officials. Jobs said the fee was not originally set up correctly and was later made voluntary. He said most residents who asked for refunds did not follow the required steps to challenge the fee. The council also considered a revised interlocal agreement with the department, with changes including quarterly response reports and more financial oversight.
Council members unanimously authorized the city manager to negotiate a contract for a new automated utility meter reading system. The contract still needs final approval, funding and legal review. Officials said aging equipment has made meter readings and billing more difficult.