03-17-2026 MinutesMINUTES
REGULAR MEETING
March 17, 2026
A Regular Meeting was held by the Schertz City Council of the City of Schertz, Texas, on March
17, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the Hal Baldwin Municipal Complex Council Chambers, 1400 Schertz
Parkway, Building #4, Schertz, Texas. The following members present to -wit:
Present: Mayor Ralph Rodriguez; Mayor Pro Tem. Mark Davis; Councilmember Michelle
Watson; Councilmember Paul Macaluso; Councilmember Ben Guerrero;
Councilmember Robert Westbrook; Councilmember Allison Heyward;
Councilmember Robert Sheridan
Staff City Manager Steve Williams; City Attorney Daniel Santee; Deputy City Manager
present: Brian James; Assistant City Manager Sarah Gonzalez; City Secretary Sheila
Edmondson; Assistant City Secretary Irene Chavez
Call to Order
Mayor Rodriguez called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Opening Prayer and Pledges of Allegiance to the Flags of the United States and State of
Texas. (Councilmember Heyward)
Councilmember Heyward provided the opening prayer and led the Pledges of Allegiance to the
Flags of the United States and the State of Texas.
Special Announcement
• Hal Baldwin Scholarship - Students attending for the Hal Baldwin Scholarship need to
sign in on the sheet located on the back podium. If you are watching remotely, please
email Sarah Gonzalez at sonzalez@schertz.com to virtually sign in. Please direct any
questions to Ms. Gonzalez.
Presentations
Quarterly Financials -1st Quarter 2025 (S.Gonzalez/J.Walters)
Mayor Rodriguez recognized Finance Director James Walters, who presented the
quarterly financial report for the first quarter. Mr. Walters reviewed charts outlining
revenue, expenditures, and overall fiscal trends compared to the prior fiscal year. He
noted the City remains aligned with budget expectations, with several timing -related
factors affecting current reporting. General Fund revenue is concentrated in December
and January, primarily due to property tax collections. Sales tax revenues increased due to
a large construction project; however, this was confirmed to be non -recurring and is
expected to normalize next quarter. General Fund expenditures remain stable, with minor
fluctuations related to capital project activity. Mr. Walters also provided updates on other
revenue sources, including permits, utilities, solid waste, drainage, EMS, economic
development, and investments, noting typical variability and some downward trends.
Overall, the City's financial position remains stable, with revenues and expenditures
tracking as expected. Variances from budget projections are primarily attributable to
timing differences and one-time revenue events. Mayor Rodriguez opened the floor to
council for discussion.
No discussion occurred.
Presentation of the FY24-25 Parks & Recreation Annual
Report (S.Gonzalez/L.Shrum)
Mayor Rodriguez recognized Parks and Recreation Director Lauren Shrum, who
presented the FY 2024-2025 Parks and Recreation Annual Report. Ms. Shrum
summarized department operations, staffing, programs, and community impact, noting the
support of full-time, part-time, seasonal staff, and over 200 volunteers. She highlighted
strong participation across facilities and programs, including increased pavilion
rentals —particularly at Pickrell Park and the Wendy Swan Pavilion —continued growth in
youth sports and aquatic usage, and over 20,000 event participants despite weather
impacts. She also emphasized ongoing community engagement, professional
development, and partnerships with local organizations. Ms. Shrum outlined key
accomplishments, including the launch of new events such as Hometown Harvest, the
Power Wheels Derby, and the Cardboard Boat Regatta in alignment with the Parks Master
Plan; facility and park improvements, including LED lighting upgrades, restroom
renovations, and enhancements to the Schertz Soccer Complex and Veterans Memorial
Plaza; expanded online reservation capabilities; and the transition of Senior Center
operations to City management. The department reported expenditures below budget and
stable revenues. Overall, the Parks and Recreation Department remains strong, with
continued demand for amenities such as additional pavilion space.
Mayor Rodriguez opened the floor to Council for discussion.
Councilmember Westbrook thanked Ms. Shrum for her presentation and inquired whether
the Parks and Recreation Department operates at a deficit and if that relates to recent fee
increases. Ms. Shrum confirmed the department operates at a deficit and noted that a cost
recovery model has not been implemented, but could be considered in the future if desired.
Councilmember Guerrero stated that volunteers across all City departments, including
Parks and Recreation, first responders, the library, and partner organizations, should be
recognized and thanked for their service at every opportunity.
City Events and Announcements
. Announcements of upcoming City Events (B.James/S.Gonzalez)
Mayor Rodriguez recognized Assistant City Manager Sarah Gonzalez who provided
announcements of upcoming City Events.
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• Announcements and recognitions by the City Manager (S.Williams)
City Manager Steve Williams stated he had no announcements or recognitions.
• Announcements and recognitions by the Mayor (R.Rodriguez)
Mayor Rodriguez stated he had no announcements or recognitions.
Hearing of Residents
This time is set aside for any person who wishes to address the City Council. Each person should
fill out the speaker's register prior to the meeting. Presentations should be limited to no more
than 3 minutes.
All remarks shall be addressed to the Council as a body, and not to any individual member
thereof. Any person making personal, impertinent, or slanderous remarks while addressing the
Council may be requested to leave the meeting.
All handouts and/or USB devices must be submitted to the City Secretary no later than noon
on the Monday preceding the meeting. Handouts will be provided to each Councilmember
prior to the start of the meeting by the City Secretary. All USB devices will be vetted by City IT
staff to ensure City property is protected from malware.
Mayor Pro Tern Mark Davis recognized the following residents:
Maggie Titterington, 1730 Schertz Parkway, provided announcements of upcoming events and
activities of The Chamber to include:
• March 25, 2026: Grand opening of Piada Italian Street Foods
• March 27, 2026: Coffee at the Chamber from 7:30 a.m. -9:00 a.m.; Veteran -owned Business
Expo at Wayland Baptist University from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.; and Ribbon cutting for
Schertz Creek Bier Garten at 4:00 p.m.
• March 28, 2026: Shred Day at Chamber Offices from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
• April 3, 2026: Chamber offices closed in observance of Good Friday.
Tiffany Gibson, 6939 Hallie Loop, Schertz, TX, introduced herself as a candidate for Schertz
City Council Place 6. Ms. Gibson stated she had prior experience and would focus on supporting
law enforcement, preserving small-town values, and maintaining fiscal responsibility in the use of
taxpayer funding.
Raquel Gutierrez, 1016 Silvertree, shared her recent community engagement activities,
including walking neighborhoods and speaking directly with residents to understand their
concerns. She reported that residents emphasized priorities such as public safety, visible police
presence, safe and maintained streets, responsible planning for future growth, and fiscal
accountability. Ms. Gutierrez expressed her full support for law enforcement and first responders
and stressed the importance of city leadership being present, responsive, and accountable to
residents' needs. She encouraged community participation in the upcoming election.
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Michele Tereletsky, read a statement on behalf of Mr. Dana Eldridge, 2628 Gallant Fox Drive,
who was unable to attend. In that statement, Mr. Eldridge commended Allison Hayward for her
service on City Council, noting her three elections with 70% or more of the vote. He expressed
concern that her support dropped to 40% during a County Commissioner election, which he
attributed to false statements about her owing money to the City. Mr. Eldridge stated that similar
false statements appear to be targeting other candidates and called for an end to divisive rhetoric.
Michele Tereletsky, 705 Marilyn, addressed Council regarding the recent award of the waste
management contract to Frontier Waste Management. She noted that Frontier made a donation to
the Chamber of Commerce shortly after the contract announcement. Ms. Tereletsky raised
concerns about the use of 96-gallon bins, explaining that not all households have garages,
driveways, or sidewalks suitable for the large bins. She questioned whether the bin size
requirements in the RFP were influenced by the consulting contractor and highlighted
accessibility challenges for long-established neighborhoods. She also referenced comments by
another resident affiliated with the Chamber of Commerce who supported the bins, emphasizing
that not all residents have the same capacity to store or roll out the containers. Ms. Tereletsky
indicated a follow-up statement would be provided in the future.
Jonathan Marquez, 5817 Saint Andrews, addressed Council regarding incomplete sidewalks
near Danville Middle School. He noted that while sidewalks exist along the school property line
and some adjacent streets, gaps remain in rural areas and other connecting roadways. Mr.
Marquez emphasized student safety and the City's responsibility to complete the sidewalks,
stating that funding is available and the project should not be delayed. He referenced prior
observations and analyses conducted by the TSAC Board and stressed the importance of
completing the sidewalks for children walking to and from school. Additionally, Mr. Marquez
expressed enthusiasm for serving on the TSAC and Parks & Recreation Boards, while
underscoring the need for accountability and follow-through on City infrastructure projects.
Consent Agenda Items
The Consent Agenda is considered self-explanatory and will be enacted by the Council with one
motion. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless they are removed from the
Consent Agenda upon the request of the Mayor or a Councilmember.
1. Minutes - Approval of the minutes from the regular Council Meeting on March 3, 2026
(S. Edmondson/S.Coumey/I. Chavez)
2. Appointments, Re -appointments, and Resignations - City of Schertz Boards,
Commissions, and Committees
• Appointments
• Capital Improvement Advisory Committee Boardmember for term ending
06/30/2028: Nancy Alicia Schuerman Croteau
• Parks and Recreation Boardmember for term ending 09/30/2028: Rodricus
Harvey
• Parks and Recreation Boardmember for unexpired term ending 09/30/2027:
Janet Sanchez
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• Parks and Recreation Alternate 1 Position for term ending 09/30/2028:
Jonathan Marquez
• Parks and Recreation Alternate 2 Position for unexpired term ending
09/30/2027: Michelle Frey
• Planning and Zoning Commissioner for the term ending 06/30/2028: Francisco
Velazquez
• Planning and Zoning Commission Alternate 1 for the term ending 06/30/2028:
Sonja Loredo-Reyes
• Planning and Zoning Commission Alternate 2 for the unexpired term ending
06/30/2027: Sean Grady
• Transportation Safety Advisory Commissioner for term ending
03/31/2028: Jay Starr and Jonathan Marquez
• Re -appointments
• Transportation Safety Advisory Commission for term ending 03/31/2028:
Richard Dziewit, Steven Icke, and Paul Wiley
• Planning and Zoning for term ending 06/30/2028: Clay Wallace, Glen Outlaw
• Resignations, Removals, and Expiring Terms
• TSAC: Donald Nolan, Ronald Stevens, Michael Winter and Melanie McCoy
• Planning and Zoning Commission Alternate 1: Judy Goldick
3. Resolution 26-R-042 - Approving the recommendation to name the 8.83-acre park
property at the intersection of Parklands Way and Park Bluff as Meadow Run
Park (S.Gonzalez/L.Shrum)
4. Resolution 26-R-043 - Authorizing execution and submittal of a Community Affirmation
Form for the Texas Water Development Board's performance of a Flood Management
Evaluation study for the City of Schertz (B.James/K.Woodlee)
5. Resolution 26-R-045 - Approving a Schertz Main Street Local Flavor Economic
Development Grant for 814 Main (S.WilliamsB.James)
Mayor Rodriguez asked if any items needed to be removed for separate action.
Councilmember Heyward asked that Agenda Items #1 and #2 be removed for separate
action.
Mayor Rodriguez asked for a motion to approve Consent Agenda Items #3 through #5.
Moved by Councilmember Allison Heyward, seconded by Councilmember Michelle
Watson.
AYE: Mayor Pro Tern Mark Davis, Councilmember Michelle Watson,
Councilmember Paul Macaluso, Councilmember Ben Guerrero,
Councilmember Robert Westbrook, Councilmember Allison Heyward,
Councilmember Robert Sheridan
Passed
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Mayor Rodriguez recognized Councilmember Heyward who stated corrections to the
Minutes under section City Events and Announcements needed to be made. Comments
by City Manager Steve Williams referencing election of Sarah Gonzalez as Texas
Municipal League Board representative should have been election to Texas City
Managers Association (TCMA) Board of Directors. Additionally, Comments by Mayor
reference to City Manager Steve Williams election to Texas Municipal League president
should read election to Texas City Managers Association (TCMA) Board President.
Mayor Rodriguez asked for a motion to approve Agenda Item #1 with the referenced
corrections.
Moved by Councilmember Allison Heyward, seconded by Councilmember Michelle
Watson.
AYE: Mayor Pro Tern Mark Davis, Councilmember Michelle Watson,
Councilmember Paul Macaluso, Councilmember Ben Guerrero,
Councilmember Robert Westbrook, Councilmember Allison Heyward,
Councilmember Robert Sheridan
Passed
Mayor Rodriguez recognized Councilmember Heyward who stated she pulled Consent
Agenda Item #2 to recognize new Board, Commission, and Committee appointees who
were in attendance: Alicia Schuerman Croteau, Jonathan Marquez, Alicia Frey, Sean
Grady, Jay Starr, and Sonya Loredo-Reyes
Mayor Rodriguez asked for a motion to approve Consent Agenda Item #2.
Moved by Councilmember Allison Heyward, seconded by Councilmember Ben
Guerrero
AYE: Mayor Pro Tern Mark Davis, Councilmember Michelle Watson,
Councilmember Paul Macaluso, Councilmember Ben Guerrero,
Councilmember Robert Westbrook, Councilmember Allison Heyward,
Councilmember Robert Sheridan
Passed
Discussion and Action Items
6. Resolution 26-R-038 - Authorizing an Advanced Funding Agreement (AFA) with the
Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), for the West Dietz Creek Trail Project.
(S.Gonzalez/L. Shrum)
Mayor Rodriguez recognized Parks and Recreation Director Lauren Shrum, who
introduced Resolution 26-R-038 and provided an update on the West Dietz Creek Trail
project. Ms. Shrum stated that the total project cost has increased from $1,835,400 to
$1,603,000 due to professional design services, which are not reimbursable under the
current TxDOT funding program, so will be funded solely by the City.
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The construction portion of the project remains eligible for reimbursement, allowing the
City to leverage state funds for the majority of construction costs. Funding for the design
portion will come from previously allocated General Fund dollars and $247,000 from the
Parkland Dedication Fund, which has a reserve balance of over $635,000. City Manager
Steve Williams confirmed with Ms. Shrum that the City will still be able to leverage the
$1 million state grant for construction.
Mayor Rodriguez opened the floor to Council for discussion.
No discussion occurred.
Mayor Rodriguez asked for a motion to approve Resolution 26-R-038.
Moved by Councilmember Allison Heyward, seconded by Councilmember Robert
Westbrook
AYE: Mayor Pro Tem Mark Davis, Councilmember Michelle Watson,
Councilmember Paul Macaluso, Councilmember Ben Guerrero,
Councilmember Robert Westbrook, Councilmember Allison Heyward,
Councilmember Robert Sheridan
Passed
7. Resolution 26-R-044 -Approval of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report FY
2024-25 (S. Gonzalez/J. Walters)
Mayor Rodriguez recognized Finance Director James Walters, who introduced Jeremy
Barbado, Audit Partner with ABIP, to present the City's annual financial report. The
Audit Committee met on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, reviewed the report and
recommended Council approval.
Mr. Barbado explained reporting deadlines and provided the following:
• An explanation of the transmittal letter from the City Manager including the GFOA
Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the fiscal year
ending September 30, 2024.
• The audit was conducted in accordance with Generally Accepted Auditing Standards
(GARS) and Government Auditing Standards.
• The City received a clean (unmodified) audit opinion with no departures from
Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), the highest rated opinion.
• Combined net position: $445 million (governmental: $231M; business -type:
$213M), up $67.1M from the prior year attributed to $30.7 in increased sales taxes
and capital contributions and $36.3 increase in charges for services in the water and
sewer fund and capital contributions for infrastructure taken on by the City.
• General Fund balance: $24AM, with $17.8M unassigned (-39% of operating
expenditures). Revenues: $53.6M; expenditures: $47.9M.
• Debt Service Fund: $1.2M; Capital Projects Fund: $67.6M, reflecting the 2025 bond
issuance.
• Single Audit performed due to federal ARP funds; no material weaknesses,
deficiencies, or non-compliance were noted.
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• New accounting standard GASB 101 was implemented; restatements were made for
beginning balances, capital assets, and receivables.
• Investment practices comply with the Public Funds Investment Act.
Mayor Rodriguez opened the floor to Council for discussion.
Councilmember Guerrero asked about the duration and cost of the audit. Mr. Barbado
reported that the audit commenced in November, with multiple on -site visits conducted
through January, for a total duration of approximately eight to ten weeks. He further
stated that the total cost of the audit was approximately $55,000.
Councilmember Westbrook asked if the audit was mainly about compliance and controls
rather than verifying the accuracy of the numbers. Mr. Barbado confirmed that this is a
brief summary. He explained that management handles the funds, receipts, payables, and
payroll, and the audit includes a risk assessment of policies and controls, followed by
validation that balances and controls are operating effectively. Councilmember Westbrook
asked whether the audit addresses revenues or deficits. Mr. Barbado responded that the
audit ensures revenues and expenditures are recorded in compliance with standards. City
Manager Steve Williams added that the financial statements are prepared by City Staff
and he highlighted information listed on the balance sheet. While the financial statements
show revenues and expenditures, the audit primarily focuses on compliance and controls
rather than predicting deficits. The external audit confirms that the City's financial
statements accurately reflect operations. The City maintains strong financial health,
adequate reserves, and the capacity to fund ongoing operations and planned capital
projects.
Councilmember Heyward stated that she did not have a question but expressed
appreciation to Mr. Walters and the Public Affairs team for creating a new cover for the
financial statement document and for their work in preparing and explaining the audit.
She also thanked the auditing firm for their thorough review, noting that it resulted in a
clean audit.
Councilmember Macaluso expressed appreciation for the report but requested earlier
distribution in the future to allow for more informed review, questions, and comments. He
asked whether the $17 million unassigned General Fund balance was primarily due to
higher sales tax and what it would be under a typical collection period. Mr. James
confirmed the balance was increased by $5 million in sales tax and $2 million from
under -budget expenditures, placing a typical unassigned balance closer to $12 million. He
also noted that staff are available to answer questions on the financials and clarified that
the audit focuses on compliance and controls, not performance assessments.
Mayor Rodriguez accepted Councilmember Heyward's motion to approve Resolution
26-R-044, the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report FY 2024-25, and called for a
second. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Michelle Watson.
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AYE: Mayor Pro Tern Mark Davis. Councilmember Michelle Watson_
Councilmember Paul Macaluso, Councilmember Ben Guerrero,
Councilmember Robert Westbrook, Councilmember Allison Heyward,
Councilmember Robert Sheridan
Passed
Public Hearings
8. Ordinance 26-M-009 - Conduct a public hearing to consider amending Chapter 90
Article V. Water and Wastewater Capital Recovery Fees, Section 90-155 Appeals.
(S.WilliamsB.James)
Mayor Rodriguez recognized Deputy City Manager Brian James, who introduced
Ordinance 26-M-009 to amend Chapter 90 Article V. Water and Wastewater Capital
Recovery fees, Section 90-155 Appeals. Mr. James explained that the City updates water
and sewer impact fees periodically as required by state law to account for cost increases.
Historically, increases have been phased in to allow developers to plan accordingly. Due
to potential state legislation (Senate Bill 1883) restricting phased -in fees, the City
implemented a shorter phase -in for fees effective July 1 for plats filed after June 1. One
developer raised concerns about timing and fairness, as some projects were already in
process. Staff proposed an appeal process for such cases, expected to have limited use.
The approach will not affect future roadway impact fees, which will follow the standard
phased -in model.
Mayor Rodriguez opened the public hearing at 7:26 p.m.
No residents came forward to speak.
Mayor Rodriguez closed the public hearing at 7:26 p.m.
Mayor Rodriguez opened the floor to Council for discussion.
No discussion occurred.
Mayor Rodriguez asked for a motion to approve Ordinance 26-M-009.
Moved by Councilmember Allison Heyward, seconded by Councilmember Robert
Westbrook
AYE: Mayor Pro Tem Mark Davis, Councilmember Michelle Watson,
Councilmember Paul Macaluso, Councilmember Ben Guerrero,
Councilmember Robert Westbrook, Councilmember Allison Heyward,
Councilmember Robert Sheridan
Passed
Closed Session
Mayor Rodriguez recessed to Closed session at 7:27 p.m.
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9. The City Council will convene in closed session pursuant to Texas Government Code
Section 551.071 to consult with its legal counsel regarding potential disannexation.
Closed session start time: 7:31 p.m.
Closed session end time: 8:05 p.m.
Reconvene into Regular Session
Mayor Rodriguez reconvened into Regular Session at 8:07 p.m.
10. Take any action based on discussion held in Closed Session under Agenda Item # 9.
No action was taken based on discussion held in Closed Session under Agenda Item #9.
Information available in City Council Packets - NO DISCUSSION TO OCCUR
11. March 2026- Major Projects Update Memo
12. Schertz Area Senior Center Policy Updates - Political Campaigns and Bingo
Sponsorships (S.Gonzalez/L.Shrum)
Requests and Announcements
• Requests by Mayor and Councilmembers for updates or information from Staff
Councilmember Ben Guerrero asked for an update on a memorial for Councilmember
Tim Brown.
Mayor Rodriguez asked for an update on the Council picture of Mayor Ralph Gutierrez for
the Chamber.
Councilmember Watson reiterated a request for a presentation regarding traffic on Schertz
Parkway and Main Street relative to the FM 3009 overpass, but specifically addressing
Schertz Parkway. Mayor Rodriguez added the need for better signage for heavy trucks
going from FM 78 across railroad tracks and asking staff to review improved warnings.
Councilmember Westbrook asked about a follow-up to the water and sewer systems
agreement; CVLGC leasing agreements with landowners and water rights.
• Requests by Mayor and Councilmembers that items or presentations be placed on a
future City Council agenda
Councilmember Watson requested a discussion on impact fees be placed on the agenda.
e City and Community Events attended and to be attended (Council)
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Councilmember Macaluso attended the Kick Cancer Event and the Interview Committee
meeting. He asked for Council's support in obtaining sponsorship for the Jubilee event.
Councilmember Guerrero attended the Kick Cancer Event.
Councilmember Westbrook attended the Northeast Partnership Luncheon.
Councilmember Heyward attended the Smoothie King ribbon cutting, the Audit
Committee, and the Interview Committee.
Councilmember Sheridan attended the Northeast Partnership Luncheon and the SCUCISD
Fellowship Board.
Mayor Rodriguez attended the Guadalupe County Mayors' meeting, TML Midyear
Conference, Kick Cancer Pep Rally & 5K, Rotary Club meeting, the NEP luncheon, and the
Chamber Luncheon.
Adjournment
Mayor Rodriguez adjourned the meeting at 8:16 p.m.
ATTEST:
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