Allen City Council met on Tuesday, March 22. Read on for the highlights and approved projects. The full agenda and meeting video is available here.
Former mayors honored
Official portraits of former Mayor Stephen Terrell and former Mayor Debbie Stout will soon be on display at Allen City Hall.
The paintings were revealed during a public reception held before the March 22 Council meeting. The portraits honor the service of Allen’s two most recent mayors: Stephen Terrell, who served as Allen Mayor for 23 years (1997-2020) and Debbie Stout, who served as mayor from March to November 2020.
These artistic renditions of Allen’s former leaders will join the display of former Allen mayors in the City Hall rotunda.
Allen Public Library recognized for service and achievements
Mayor Fulk honored Allen Public Library with a proclamation for Library Week, April 3-9. Allen Public Library staff have served Allen for combined total of over 50 years offering unique in-house learning programs and activities. In 2021, the Library earned its eighth consecutive Achievement of Excellence in Libraries Award from the Texas Municipal Library Directors Association.
During the Council meeting, the Library Board gave its annual report which highlighted new programs such as digital magazines, world language collections, monthly Teen Litboxes and Grab & Go Bags for families. The presentation included an update on the latest phase of the Library facility expansion, which is underway with a survey to collect feedback on proposed conceptual designs.
Creek bank stabilization project approved
Council approved the design and construction of a stabilization solution for erosion and shifting near two creeks in Allen: Watters Branch Creek at the Montgomery Boulevard Bridge, and Cottonwood Creek at Exchange Parkway. As these major creeks age and the contributing drainage basins develop, the banks will erode and shift over time. These two areas are experiencing erosion that directly impacts City water pipeline infrastructure. The $520,245 project will be funded by budget savings within the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) from previous projects.
Allen receives clean audit
An annual review of City funds found no errors or operational issues, according to the report from an independent auditor. “This is the cleanest opinion and audit that a local government can receive,” said Sara Dempsey, CPA at accounting firm Weaver, during her presentation to Allen City Council. The City received an unmodified or “clean” audit for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2021. No deficiencies or material weaknesses were found in the city’s internal control. This marked the twenty-third consecutive unmodified or “clean” audit for the City of Allen.
Recognizing fiscal efficiency
Allen City Council proclaimed March 2022 as “Purchasing Month,” recognizing the efficiency, hard work and effectiveness of the City of Allen’s Purchasing Department.
This national recognition day acknowledges the purchasing professionals who help municipal governments operate efficiently and responsibly.
Follow council news and future meetings
Allen City Council meets at 7 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesday of every month. Meetings are held in Council Chambers at Allen City Hall (305 Century Parkway). A calendar of upcoming meetings is available on the City website.
To receive a link to upcoming meetings by email, visit CityofAllen.org/NotifyMe and sign up for City Meeting Notices. Meeting agendas are posted at least 72 hours prior to each meeting. Agenda links are provided within the meeting details of each calendar listing and at CityofAllen.org/Agendas.