City of Baytown – City Council Meeting Recap

City Hall Council Chambers

Thursday, November 13, 2025

Work Session: 5:30 p.m. 

Regular Meeting: 6:30 p.m.

This summary is intended to inform the public of the main topics discussed and actions taken by the Baytown City Council during the November 13, 2025 meeting. For more detailed information, the full meeting transcript and official minutes are available at baytown.org/183 or upon request.

Work Session

• Solid Waste Franchise Fee Discussion: Staff presented an overview of proposed updates to Chapter 86, Article IV, which regulates commercial solid waste haulers. The proposed changes include requiring a uniform franchise permit, quarterly reporting, and clarification of audit and sales-tax provisions.

Why It Matters: The discussion ensures consistency and accountability among commercial haulers, promoting fair competition and better service oversight.

• Alcohol Beverages Ordinance Discussion: Council discussed a proposed amendment to Section 70-8 of the Code of Ordinances to allow alcoholic beverages at City-owned or controlled properties for approved tourism and sport-tourism events under specific permitting guidelines.

Why It Matters: The discussion focused on balancing event opportunities and tourism development with public safety and permitting control.

Municipal Development District (MDD) Actions

• Meeting Minutes and EDF Contract: The MDD approved the minutes from its September 25 and October 23 joint meetings and authorized a $350,000 Economic Development Contract with the Baytown-West Chambers County Economic Development Foundation (EDF).

Why It Matters: The EDF contract continues collaboration efforts with the City of Baytown in order to attract business, encourage redevelopment, and strengthen the city’s economic base.

City Council Decisions

• Community Highlights and Recognition: Council recognized City employees for their years of service, received the Emergency Management Accreditation Award, and presented a proclamation designating November 8, 2025, as Brickyards on Cedar Bayou Day.
• Election Canvass and Certification of Results: Council certified the results of the November 4, 2025 General Election, which included District 1 and District 3 City Council races, General Obligation bonds, and the renewal of the Crime Control (CCPD) and Fire Control (FCPEMSD) Districts.

Why It Matters: Certification finalizes the election results and ensures transparency in the democratic process.

• Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Special Use Permit: Council approved a Special Use Permit for a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) on Bob Smith Road and Walker Road.

Why It Matters: The permit allows renewable energy storage within zoning guidelines.

• Reinvestment Zone (RIZ) Ordinance: Council approved an ordinance relating to the administration of a designated Reinvestment Zone (RIZ).

Why It Matters: The action maintains oversight of reinvestment areas supporting targeted economic and infrastructure improvements.

• Light Towing and Storage Services Bids: Council rejected all bids for regular light towing and storage services after submissions failed to meet City requirements.

Why It Matters: Re-bidding ensures future contracts meet compliance standards and protect public resources.

• Del Sol Settlement Agreement: Council ratified a compromise settlement agreement and release between Del Sol and the City of Baytown.
• Meeting concluded with city manager and council member reports, recognition of staff achievements, and reminders about upcoming community events.

Get Involved

• Attend in person at City Hall Council Chambers.
• Watch the meeting replay on Xfinity Channel 16.
• Livestream available at baytown.org.
• Share your comments during the next public input session.