During a recent city council meeting, discussions centered on the allocation of hotel motel tax revenues and public safety concerns, particularly regarding police training and conduct.

The council confirmed that 55% of the hotel motel tax will be allocated to the local chamber of commerce, with the remaining funds retained by the city. This agreement has already been approved by the council, which also oversees the budgetary decisions related to the chamber's funding. However, concerns were raised about potential conflicts of interest, as one council member is on the chamber's board, rendering him ineligible to vote on related expenditures.

The meeting transitioned to citizen communications, where public comments were invited. One resident, expressing frustration, criticized the police department's handling of a recent incident involving an individual named Herman, who allegedly suffered mistreatment while in custody. The speaker claimed that officers lacked proper training in critical areas, including suicide prevention and emergency medical procedures, and accused the department of failing to adhere to its own policies during the incident.

The resident's remarks highlighted a broader concern regarding police accountability and the adequacy of training provided to officers, particularly in sensitive situations involving mental health crises. The speaker called for an investigation into the department's practices and urged the council to take action, suggesting that the Texas Rangers might need to be involved.

The meeting underscored ongoing tensions between community members and law enforcement, as well as the council's role in addressing public safety and fiscal responsibility.