The Cuero City Council meeting held at 5 p.m. on March 10, 2025, addressed several important topics. Highlights included recognizing the achievements of the Lady Gobbler basketball team, proclaiming April as Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month, and discussing the results of a litter survey conducted by the Keep Cuero Beautiful organization.
The meeting started with public comments from Ronnie Dietz who requested city funding for senior bingo prizes, the reinstatement of the book-sharing box. He emphasized that the senior bingo gatherings have been a beloved tradition in the community for approximately 15 years, taking place at the Methodist, Presbyterian, and St. John Churches, as well as the library, and that they typically host 25 to 30 participants per event.
Also, Mr. Pedro Gonzalez introduced his company, Southwest Engineers, which is located at 1505 North Esplanade. He highlighted their services related to water wells, water transmission, and, in particular, water reuse. They plan to hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony in April.
Recognition of Lady Gobblers
Mayor Emil Garza recognized the accomplishment of the 2025 Lady Gobbler Basketball team, who went to the Girls Basketball State Championships. Coach Amy Crain introduced the team members and coaching staff, highlighting their accomplishments and thanking the community for their support.
“You're part of history. You've made some great history. You've started a tradition. And just the fact that you're here tonight is going into the record of the city of Cuero, and it'll be there for generations to come,” Mayor Garza said.
Child Abuse Prevention Month
Mayor Emil Garza proclaimed April 2025 as child abuse awareness and prevention month in Cuero, and urged all citizens to recognize this month by dedicating ourselves to the task of improving the quality of life for all children and families. Kati Klores, President of Friends of DeWitt County Children, discussed their efforts to support children in foster care and raise awareness about child abuse. Klores mentioned upcoming events like the siren soundoff and the touch truck event to promote child abuse awareness and provide resources to the community.
“Across from Bush’s Chicken in front of the old John C. French campus, FDCC will place 91 pinwheels representing the number of confirmed victims of abuse or neglect in DeWitt county in 2024. The Siren Sound Off is a ceremony on April 1,” Klores said.
Litter Survey Results Former Mayor and President of Keep Cuero Beautiful, Sara Post-Meyer, expressed her gratitude toward the Environmental Services Department and the Parks Department. Keep Cuero Beautiful (KCB) recently completed a litter survey required by the Keep America Beautiful organization. This survey is essential for maintaining their status as a President's Circle affiliate, which enables them to apply for grants to support community initiatives.
The survey involved driving throughout the community, and she said the findings were disappointing.
“There is more litter, more overgrown lots, more junk vehicles, and more dilapidated structures than what we observed in 2024,” she noted.
While the survey results will not affect their score, KCB is committed to improving the situation. “We will address these issues, and it will be an ongoing effort throughout this year,” Meyer stated.
Meyer also expressed her thanks to the city and various departments for their collaboration and presented a check of $14,015.43, which was accrued from KCB 363 volunteer hours.
Park Use Request
Fire Chief Craig Oakes requested permission to close gates for the Cuero Volunteer Fire Department's cook-off on July 20-21, which was granted by the council. They expect to host 75 teams.
Ordinances, Resolutions The Council approved the following: revising the tire disposal fee in second reading of Ordinance 2025-03 authorizing an annual service agreement with Thirkettle Corp Dba Aqua-Metric Sales Company AMI in Resolution 2025-06. The water meter radios were approved during the February Council meeting. The implementation of remote water meter radios is a priority. City Manager Berger explained the anticipated cost savings associated with this initiative.
“We are currently facing challenges with the number of radio reads and the number of radios that are out of service. This situation requires significant man-hours for reading meters and entering data. We expect considerable cost savings once we implement and install the new system,” Berger said. authorizing the submission of a Texas Community Development Block Grant Program application for downtown revitalization in Resolution 2025-07 and awarding a bid for street improvements under the Texas Department of Agriculture in Resolution 2025-07. Main Street Director Sandra Osman provided details about the program.
“The preliminary applications are due on April 3rd,” she said. authorizing City Manager to execute contract with ABN for street improvement in Resolution 2025-08. City Manager Berger chose to do the base bid in the new alternate one, which would be the 100 block of West Hamilton. The council approved a street improvement project with ABN Construction, LLC totaling $507,137.50.
Financial Reports, Spring Cleanup
Finance Director Connie Hawes presented the quarterly financial report, highlighting investment earnings and the city's financial health. The total funds of all accounts, including major fund investment, general operating, payroll, and drug forfeiture accounts are $17,576,204.72 The council was informed about the upcoming spring cleanup event, including details about the brush site and electronic recycling.
Property on 116 Cheatam Road
Lastly, the Cuero City Council went into closed session and reconvened in open session to address matters regarding real property at 1166 Cheatham Road. Council authorized the city manager to gather information and conduct fact-finding on this property.
The next regular Cuero City Council meeting will be held at 5 p.m. on April 14, located at City Hall Chambers.
