Mission · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Mission public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Mission Redevelopment Authority TIRZ No. 1 Bond Issuance
The council approved a series of reimbursement agreements with the MRA covering Hoerner Road, Inspiration Road/Military Highway, Los Ebanos Road, re-use waterlines, the sanitation/fleet facility, and a $4 million water treatment feasibility study. These fund major road and water infrastructure across the city.
Infrastructure and Redevelopment Agreements
The council is reviewing numerous reimbursement agreements with the Mission Redevelopment Authority for major road, water, and facility projects.
Alcohol Sales Permit for Ricardi Café
The Drunken Chicken on Conway can now serve alcohol with its BBQ, and a new bar/lounge called Mala Fama is coming to Expressway 83 with live music, three required security officers, and a 145-person cap.
City Manager Recruitment
A resident urged the council to wait until after the November election to hire a city manager, arguing a possible four-seat council turnover could trigger a costly severance if the new majority wants a different direction.
Historic Preservation Ordinance
A $100,000 federal grant — the only one awarded in Texas — will fund a survey of the last unsurveyed part of the original townsite, documenting Mission's citrus and agricultural history for possible National Register nomination.
2026 Proposed Property Tax Rate
The city set its property tax rate at $0.5653 per $100 valuation, keeping revenues steady while maintaining senior and disabled tax exemptions and freezes.
Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Annual Budget
City management presented the preliminary budget for the upcoming fiscal year, noting an increase in property valuations and stable revenue projections.
Municipal Fund Transfers and Drainage Maintenance Financing
The city is moving forward with a project to improve drainage in the Astroland area. This is funded by a grant, but part of the work depends on further approvals.
Home-Based Business Regulations
Residents weighed in on a home-based firearms license intended to help applicants secure federal credentials for future community training programs. Commissioners ensured strict safeguards by requiring an affidavit promising zero commercial sales from the residential neighborhood.
Black & Decker Economic Development Agreement
Council reviewed the criteria governing economic development agreements under Chapter 380 of the Texas Local Government Code, shaping how the city attracts business investment.
Wastewater Treatment Plant Emergency Repairs
The council approved using $634,440 in existing 2021 bond proceeds to cover urgent repairs at the city's wastewater treatment plant.
Place 2 Special Election
Mission's City Council just got a new face! Voters picked Gerlach to represent Seat #3. This means a fresh perspective is coming to city hall.
November 2026 General Election
The city officially called for a general election on November 3, 2026, to elect a Mayor and Councilmembers for Places One and Three, with candidate filing opening in July.
Infrastructure and Equipment Purchases
The city approved over $2.1 million to purchase two fire pumpers and nearly $180,000 to equip them, funded through a 10-year financing agreement. These new vehicles enhance emergency response across Mission.
Infrastructure Grants & Water Supply Improvements
The city is pursuing up to $21 million in water infrastructure grants and $2 million in disaster recovery funds to bolster local public works.
Car Wash Regulation
The city instituted a 180-day pause on new car wash applications to address water shortages and review zoning and density standards after community backlash over clustering.
Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) Extension & Infrastructure Projects
The city is working to extend the downtown redevelopment tax increment reinvestment zone by 15 years to fund future road and infrastructure projects totaling millions.
Astroland Drainage Improvements Project
Council approved a nearly $1 million construction contract to upgrade drainage systems along Lomita Avenue, Del Mar Drive, and Citriana Drive to mitigate flooding. The project is funded by a GLO grant.