South Padre Island City Council Meeting Summary for Nov. 20, 2013

The City of South Padre Island held its Regular Called Council Meeting Wednesday, November 20, 2013. The short agenda included a presentation on The University of Texas-Pan American (UTPA) Academic Partnerships Online Degree Program. The Council approved the partnership that that will allow City employees to enroll in UTPA's online degree program at a preferred tuition rate to obtain a Master of Business Administration or a Master of Public Administration. There is no cost for the partnership and simply establishes the City's commitment to promoting the fully online program.
 
The Council also approved Resolution No. 2013-25 adopting the Parks and Open Space Master Plan. With the approved plan, the City can now seek grants and funding to help develop green spaces.
 
Development of side streets is set to continue after the Council approved to take $231,385.42 from excess reserves to repave and improve East Sunset Street with curb, gutter and drainage. East Sunset Street was next in line in the priority list of streets needing improvement in the 2013 Street Paving Program.
 
The Council approved the purchase of five new Mobi-chairs in the amount of $9,550. Mobi-chairs are amphibious wheelchairs that are beach and surf accessible. The service, which has been highly praised by users, is provided to the public at no cost through the Fire Department.
 
Prior to going into Executive Session, the Council voted to submit Ricardo Morado as its nominee for Position 9 on the Cameron Appraisal District Board of Directors. No action was taken following the Executive Session.
 
For a complete board agenda or to view meetings online, visit www.myspi.org. City of South Padre Island Regular Called Council Meetings are held on the first and third Wednesday of the month at 5:30 p.m. at the Municipal Building, City Council Chambers, 2nd Floor, 4601 Padre Boulevard.