City Council
Regular MeetingMesquite, TX · February 3, 2025
Minutes
City of Mesquite, Texas
Minutes - Final
City Council
Monday, February 3, 2025 5:30 PM City Hall | Council Chamber
757 N. Galloway Avenue | Mesquite, Texas
Present: Mayor Daniel Alemán, Jr., and Councilmembers Jeff Casper, Tandy Boroughs, Kenny Green,
Elizabeth Rodriguez-Ross, B.W. Smith and Brandon Murden, City Manager Cliff Keheley and City
Secretary Sonja Land.
PRE-MEETING - TRAINING ROOMS A&B - 5:30 P.M.
AGENDA REVIEW
EXECUTIVE SESSION - COUNCIL CONFERENCE ROOM - 5:43 P.M.
Mayor Alemán announced that the City Council would meet in Executive Session pursuant to Section
551.087 of the Texas Government Code to consider commercial or financial information regarding
business prospects or projects (Item No. 7 – Discuss an economic development redevelopment
project at the corner of Town East Boulevard and IH-635); whereupon, the City Council proceeded to
meet in Council Conference Room. After the closed meeting ended at 5:53 p.m., the City Council
reconvened in Open Session.
No executive action was necessary.
EXECUTIVE SESSION - COUNCIL CONFERENCE ROOM - 5:53 P.M.
Mayor Alemán announced that the City Council would meet in Executive Session pursuant to Section
551.074 of the Texas Government Code to consider the appointment, evaluation, employment,
reassignment, duties, discipline or dismissal of the City Manager, City Attorney, Municipal Court Judge,
City Secretary, members of the various City boards and commissions, and City officers or other City
employees (Annual review of City Attorney); whereupon, the City Council proceeded to meet in the
Council Conference Room. After the closed meeting ended at 6:45 p.m., the City Council reconvened in
Open Session.
No executive action was necessary.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER - 7:00 P.M.
INVOCATION
Harry Sewell, Pastor, Family Cathedral of Praise, Mesquite, Texas.
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City Council Minutes - Final February 3, 2025
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Members of the Mesquite Heart Board.
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS
1. Mr. Casper stated that Visit Mesquite has curated a new self-guided tour spotlighting local
Black-owned restaurants to celebrate Black History Month. Each restaurant on the new foodie trail is
featured on the Visit Mesquite website and in a printed guide that includes the eatery ’s location,
description and signature dish. Diners who eat at restaurants on the tour can participate in a drawing to
win a suite at Mesquite Arena’s Annual Hip Hop Cowboys Spring Rodeo on Saturday, March 15, 2025.
Learn more by visiting www.VisitMesquiteTX.com.
2. Mr. Casper invited citizens to a District 1 Neighborhood Meeting on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at
7:00 p.m., at Dunford Recreation Center, 1015 Green Canyon Drive.
3. Mr. Green stated that the Mesquite North Branch Library, 2600 Oates Drive, will celebrate Black
History Month with a program presented by Percussion Things, on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 2:00
p.m. By combining rhythms and sounds, Percussion Things brings stories to life about African
Americans who contributed to our nation’s history. The event is free and open to all ages.
4. Mr. Green invited citizens to a District 2 Neighborhood Meeting on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at
10:00 a.m., at the Mesquite North Branch Library, 2600 Oates Drive.
5. Ms. Rodriguez-Ross stated that to celebrate Black History Month, kids, ages 8 to 12, are invited to
the Mesquite Main Library, 300 West Grubb Drive, for “Young at Art” to create projects inspired by
famous African American artists. This free event will be held on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at 4:00
p.m. The Main Library will also host a gathering on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., featuring
African drummer and storyteller Baba Kwasi. At this free, family-friendly event, experience the rhythms
of African drums and a variety of percussion instruments accompanied by captivating storytelling and
songs.
6. Mr. Boroughs announced that on Saturday, February 15, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., the
Mesquite Arts Center will be transformed into a winter wonderland of Valentines and glow -in-the-dark
fun for a new event this year called “Winter GLOW Fest.” Attendees will enjoy workshops, visually
stunning glow installations, vendors, music, Girl Scout Cookie sales, inside and outside the Arts Center .
“Winter GLOW Fest” also will include a reception with artist Phil Samson, whose work is currently
being showcased in the Main Gallery and a meet-and-greet workshop with the artists from “Write
Hands.”
7. Mr. Smith announced that this Saturday, February 8, 2025, the Mesquite Police Department is
hosting the Annual Polar Plunge at Vanston Pool, 2913 Oates Drive, at 8:00 a.m. This event raises
funds for Texas athletes participating in the Special Olympics. You can register to “dive-in” or make a
monetary donation to help this worthy cause.
8. Mr. Murden stated that in honor of Black History Month, Historic Mesquite, Inc ., will present a free
screening of “Cowboys of Color.” This award-winning short documentary explores the past, present
and future of African American cowboys. North Texas native Coy Poitier directed the film. He will be on
hand after the show to answer questions from the audience. The screening will be held on Saturday,
February 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., at Opal Lawrence Historical Park, 711 East Kearney Street.
9. Mr. Murden stated he is hosting a brunch on Saturday, February 22, 2025, to celebrate Black History
Month which will include guest speakers and a panel discussion. Citizens are invited to this event
which will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., in the Cliff Keheley Community Room at the Dallas
County Mesquite Government Center, 500 South Galloway Avenue.
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City Council Minutes - Final February 3, 2025
10. Mayor Alemán stated that in addition to these Black History Month events, the City will be posting
weekly recognitions of key City leaders and employees throughout the month on the City ’s social media
accounts. To learn more, visit www.cityofmesquite.com/BHM.
11. Mayor Alemán invited citizens to attend the Annual State of the Community event on Thursday,
February 6, 2025, at the Mesquite Arts Center, 1527 North Galloway Avenue. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.
and the program begins at 6:00 p.m. with a panel discussion that he will be a part of along with
Mesquite Independent School District Dr. Ángel Rivera, Dallas College – Eastfield President Dr. Eddie
Tealer and Mesquite Chamber of Commerce President Alexander Helgar. Come celebrate the
successes of the past year and discuss the City’s plans for future. The evening will end with a short
reception.
CITIZENS FORUM
Vivian Johnson, 4538 Live Oak Drive, suggested that the City post a map and directions, at City Hall, to
the Dallas County Tax Office where citizens pay their property taxes.
CONSENT AGENDA
Approval of the Consent Agenda
Mr. Green moved to approve the items on the Consent Agenda as follows. Motion
was seconded by Mr. Boroughs and approved unanimously.
1 Minutes of the regular City Council meeting held January 21, 2025.
Approved on the Consent Agenda.
2 RFQ No. 2025-043 - Project Management Services for the Renovation of
Multiple City Facilities.
(Authorize the City Manager to finalize and execute a contract with Johnson,
Mirmiran & Thompson (JMT), Inc., for project management services in
connection with the design and remodel of the two newly acquired Dallas
County buildings and the Mesquite Convention Center in an amount not to
exceed $535,566.00, inclusive of reimbursables.)
Approved on the Consent Agenda.
3 Bid No. 2025-072 - Annual Leasing of Satori Postal Coding Software, Address
Printer, Inserter and WTS-P Inbound Tracking System.
(Staff recommends award to Quadient, Inc., through TxSmartBuy Contract No.
985-C1, in an amount not to exceed $145,131.36. The term of the lease is for
48 months with a monthly amount of $3,023.57 and an annual amount of
$36,282.84, subject to annual appropriation of sufficient funds.)
Approved on the Consent Agenda.
4 Authorize the Mayor to execute an Employment Agreement between the City of
Mesquite, Texas, and Municipal Court Judge Detra Hill.
Approved on the Consent Agenda.
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City Council Minutes - Final February 3, 2025
5 Authorize the Mayor to execute an Employment Agreement between the City of
Mesquite, Texas, and City Secretary Sonja Land.
Approved on the Consent Agenda.
END OF CONSENT AGENDA
APPOINTMENTS TO BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND COMMITTEES
6 Consider appointment of one Alternate Member (Alternate No. 1) to the Housing
Board for a term to expire December 31, 2025.
Mr. Casper moved to appoint Tasheara Smith-Perkin as an Alternate Member
(Alternate No. 1) to the Housing Board for a term to expire December 31, 2025.
Motion was seconded by Mr. Boroughs and approved unanimously.
ADJOURNMENT
Mr. Casper moved to adjourn the meeting. Motion was seconded by Mr. Boroughs
and approved unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 7:17 p.m.
Attest: Approved:
__________________________________ __________________________________
Sonja Land, City Secretary Daniel Alemán, Jr., Mayor
City of Mesquite, Texas Page 4
Agenda
City of Mesquite, Texas
Meeting Agenda
City Council
Monday, February 3, 2025 5:30 PM City Hall | Council Chamber
757 N. Galloway Avenue | Mesquite, Texas
Members of the public desiring to speak during Citizens Forum may complete a registration card, which is
available at the entrance to the City Council Chamber, and present it to the City Secretary prior to the
meeting or pre-register by sending an email, including name, address and subject to be discussed, to the
City Secretary at sland@cityofmesquite.com by 3:00 p.m., on February 3, 2025.
PRE-MEETING - TRAINING ROOMS A&B - 5:30 P.M.
AGENDA REVIEW
EXECUTIVE SESSION - COUNCIL CONFERENCE ROOM - 5:30 P.M.
In accordance with Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code, the City Council reserves the right to
adjourn into executive session to discuss any of the following:
• Pending and/or Contemplated Litigation
• Purchase, Exchange, Lease or Value of Real Property
• Personnel Matters
• Economic Development
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER - 7:00 P.M.
INVOCATION
Harry Sewell, Pastor, Family Cathedral of Praise, Mesquite, Texas.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Members of the Mesquite Heart Board.
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS
This time is reserved for special announcements and recognition of individuals or groups.
City of Mesquite, Texas Page 1 Monday, February 3, 2025
City Council Meeting Agenda February 3, 2025
CITIZENS FORUM
At this time a number of citizens not to exceed 10 shall be allowed to speak on any matter other than
items on the agenda, personnel matters, matters under litigation or matters concerning the purchase,
exchange, lease or value of real property for a length of time not exceeding three minutes on a first-come,
first-served basis. Citizens addressing the Council through a translator will be allowed six minutes. No
Council action or discussion is to be taken until such matter is placed on the Agenda and posted in
accordance with law.
CITIZENS COMMENTS
At this time, any individual wishing to discuss any matter on the agenda shall be allowed to speak for a
length of time not exceeding three minutes on a first-come, first-served basis. Citizens addressing the
Council through a translator will be allowed six minutes. Anyone desiring to speak on an item scheduled
for a public hearing is requested to hold their comments until the public hearing on that item.
CONSENT AGENDA
(All items on the Consent Agenda are routine items and may be approved with one motion; however,
should any member of the Council or any individual wish to discuss any item, said item may be removed
from the Consent Agenda upon request by a City Councilmember.)
1 25-7538 Minutes of the regular City Council meeting held January 21, 2025.
Attachments: January 21, 2025, minutes
2 25-7537 RFQ No. 2025-043 - Project Management Services for the Renovation of
Multiple City Facilities.
(Authorize the City Manager to finalize and execute a contract with
Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson (JMT), Inc., for project management
services in connection with the design and remodel of the two newly
acquired Dallas County buildings and the Mesquite Convention Center in an
amount not to exceed $535,566.00, inclusive of reimbursables.)
Attachments: Scope of Services
3 25-7539 Bid No. 2025-072 - Annual Leasing of Satori Postal Coding Software,
Address Printer, Inserter and WTS-P Inbound Tracking System.
(Staff recommends award to Quadient, Inc., through TxSmartBuy Contract
No. 985-C1, in an amount not to exceed $145,131.36. The term of the lease
is for 48 months with a monthly amount of $3,023.57 and an annual
amount of $36,282.84, subject to annual appropriation of sufficient funds.)
Attachments: Quadient, Inc. Lease/Quote
4 25-7530 Authorize the Mayor to execute an Employment Agreement between the
City of Mesquite, Texas, and Municipal Court Judge Detra Hill.
5 25-7531 Authorize the Mayor to execute an Employment Agreement between the
City of Mesquite, Texas, and City Secretary Sonja Land.
City of Mesquite, Texas Page 2 Monday, February 3, 2025
City Council Meeting Agenda February 3, 2025
APPOINTMENTS TO BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND COMMITTEES
6 25-7535 Consider appointment of one Alternate Member (Alternate No. 1) to the
Housing Board for a term to expire December 31, 2025.
Attachments: List of Eligible Applicants
ADJOURNMENT
NOTICE OF EXECUTIVE SESSION
Pending and Contemplated Litigation
Pursuant to Section 551.071 of the Texas Government Code, the City Council will meet in closed session to
consider pending or contemplated litigation subjects or settlement offers. The following cases/subjects
may be discussed:
1. Anthony Wagner v. City of Mesquite, Texas, Cause No. DC-22-02864 - Filed 03-14-2022; appeal to 5th
District Court of Appeals, Dallas, Cause No. 05-22-00826-CV - Filed 08-10-2022
2. City of Dallas, City of Mesquite, et al., v. Disney DTC, LLC, et al., Cause No. DC-22-09128 – Filed
08-03-2022
3. Cesar Nunez-Solis v. The City of Mesquite, Texas, Cause No. DC-22-11631 - Filed 09-06-2022
4. Danny Booker v. City of Mesquite Risk Management, Cause No. DC-23-18301 - Filed 10-25-2023
5. Dominick Green v. R. Rose, C. Pabst and the City of Mesquite, Texas, Cause No. 3:24-cv-00337-X – Filed
02-12-2024
6. Mesquite Asset Recovery Group, LLC, et al. v. City of Mesquite, Case No. DC-24-02668 – Filed
02-15-2024
7. Alexander Reyes Serrano v. City of Mesquite, Cause No. CC-24-05058A – Filed 07-10-2024
8. Shamsa Alshilbi v. City of Mesquite, et al., Cause No. 3:24-cv-02000-L – Filed 08-06-2024
9. City of Mesquite v. Residence at Tradewind Apartments LLC, et al, Cause No. DC-24-12338 - Filed
08-09-2024
10. Stephen Lawrence v. City of Mesquite and Jack Fyall, Cause No. 3:24-cv-3141 – Filed December 14,
2024
Personnel Matters
Pursuant to Section 551.074 of the Texas Government Code, the City Council may consider the
appointment, evaluation, employment, reassignment, duties, discipline or dismissal of the City Manager,
City Attorney, Municipal Court Judge, City Secretary, members of the various City boards and
commissions, and City officers or other employees. A complete list of the members of the City boards and
commissions is on file in the City Secretary’s office.
• Annual review of City Attorney
City of Mesquite, Texas Page 3 Monday, February 3, 2025
City Council Meeting Agenda February 3, 2025
Economic Development
Pursuant to Section 551.087 of the Texas Government Code, the City Council will meet in closed session to
discuss or deliberate regarding commercial or financial information that the governmental body has
received from a business prospect that the governmental body seeks to have locate, stay, or expand in or
near the territory of the governmental body and with which the governmental body is conducting
economic development negotiations or to deliberate the offer of a financial or other incentive to such a
business prospect. The following subjects may be discussed:
7 25-7540 Discuss an economic development redevelopment project at the corner of
Town East Boulevard and IH-635.
Following discussions in executive session, the City Council will reconvene in open session where any
final action regarding executive session items will be taken.
The City Council reserves the right to adjourn into executive session at any time during the course of this
meeting to discuss any of the matters posted on this agenda, when such executive session is authorized by
Texas Government Code Section 551.071 (Consultation with Attorney), 551.072 (Deliberations regarding
Real Property), 551.073 (Deliberations regarding Gifts or Donations), 551.074 (Personnel Matters),
551.076 (Deliberations regarding Security Devices or Security Audits) and 551.087 (Economic
Development); Texas Tax Code Section 321.3022 (Sales Tax Information) and Texas Government Code
Section 418.183(f) (Emergency Management).
The City Hall is wheelchair accessible. Any requests for sign interpretive services must be made 48 hours
in advance of the meeting. To make arrangements, call the City Secretary's office at 972-216-6244 or TDD
1-800-735-2989.
Pursuant to Section 30.06, Penal Code (trespass by license holder with a concealed handgun), a person
licensed under Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government Code (handgun licensing law), may not enter this
property with a concealed handgun.
Conforme a la Sección 30.06 del Código Penal (entrada ilegal de persona titular de licencia con arma de
fuego oculta), personas con licencia segun el Sub-capitulo H, Capitulo 411, Código de Gobierno (ley de
permiso para portar arma de fuego), no deben entrar a esta propiedad portando un arma de fuego oculta.
Pursuant to Section 30.07, Penal Code (trespass by license holder with an openly carried handgun), a
person licensed under Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government Code (handgun licensing law), may not
enter this property with a handgun that is carried openly.
Conforme a la Sección 30.07 del Código Penal (entrada ilegal de persona titular de licencia con arma de
fuego a la vista), personas con licencia segun el Sub-capitulo H, Capitulo 411, Código de Gobierno (ley de
permiso para portar arma de fuego), no deben entrar a esta propiedad portando una arma de fuego a la
vista.
Pursuant to Section 551.007 (c) of the Texas Local Government Code, any member of the public wishing to
address the City Council through the use of a translator is granted at least twice the amount of time as a
member of the public who does not require the assistance of a translator.
City of Mesquite, Texas Page 4 Monday, February 3, 2025
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