In a recent special meeting held on January 3, 2025, the Bastrop City Council addressed several pressing financial matters, including the allocation of funds and employee compensation related to the COVID-19 pandemic. A significant decision was made regarding the distribution of $275,000 in available funds, which will be divided among council members for various community projects.

The council discussed the remaining balance from a previous contract, clarifying that approximately $30,000 is still owed to the city. This led to a broader conversation about the allocation of funds, including a proposal to support local swimming pool initiatives, highlighting the council's commitment to community recreation and safety.

A key topic of debate was the distribution of premium pay to city employees who worked during the pandemic. The council confirmed that 89 employees would receive a total of $222,000 in retroactive payments, with full-time employees receiving $2,000 and part-time employees $1,000. This decision was framed within the guidelines of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), which stipulates that such payments can only be made for hours worked during the pandemic.

However, the council members expressed concerns about the timing and fairness of these payments, particularly in relation to the compensation of public safety personnel. Some council members argued that the funds could have been better utilized to provide raises for police officers, emphasizing the importance of public safety in the community's economic stability.

The meeting also touched on the city's tax revenue, with officials clarifying that the tax rate had not decreased, but rather remained stable despite lower-than-expected collections. This situation has prompted discussions about budget management and the need for careful financial planning moving forward.

As the council continues to navigate these financial challenges, the decisions made in this meeting are expected to have lasting implications for the city's budget and community services. The council plans to revisit these discussions in upcoming meetings, ensuring that all voices are heard and that the needs of Bastrop residents are prioritized.