New Braunfels · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in New Braunfels public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Feral Cat Colony Ordinance Review
The city is weighing changes to its feral cat colony ordinance, which governs trap-neuter-return programs and the volunteers who manage colonies. Board members want stronger enforcement "teeth" and better education for people who want to help but don't know proper TNR practice.
Linden Ranch construction noise in District 3
Multiple residents near the Linden Ranch apartment development described rock crushing and construction from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week, since August. Staff said the current ordinance allows those hours, is benchmarking amendments, and police will take decibel readings; the developer was urged to skip Sundays.
Automated License Plate Reader Program
Two speakers urged the city to drop its Flock ALPR contract, citing 745,000+ vehicle reads in 30 days, security breaches elsewhere, and little publicized benefit data. One asked the council not to renew when the contract comes up.
Board and Commission Code of Conduct and Free Speech Review
Speakers split over Fire Lieutenant John Weige's anti-Muslim Facebook posts and his placement on leave. Some demanded accountability under city conduct standards; others defended his First Amendment rights and criticized state Rep. Carrie Isaac's intervention.
Installation of 'In God We Trust' Motto in Council Chambers
Councilmember Nikki Shaw brought forward a presentation and discussion regarding whether to install the 'In God We Trust' motto in the council chambers.
Firefighter Drug Use Disqualification Guidelines
The commission is reviewing proposed clarifications regarding drug use disqualifications for entry-level firefighter applicants.
Police Officer Psychological Examination Standards
The commission will consider updates to the psychological exam parameters for beginning police officers to ensure proper screening for candidates.
Police Union Meet and Confer Agreement Amendments
The city and the New Braunfels Police Officers Association scheduled discussions regarding potential updates to their labor agreement.