The Selma City Council convened on March 18, 2025, to discuss several key ordinances that aim to enhance community events and address housing needs in the city. Among the most significant decisions was the adoption of an ordinance that officially recognizes the Tejano Festival and Día de los Muertos as legacy events. This designation waives the one-day business license requirement for vendors participating in these events, making it easier for local businesses to engage with the community during these celebrations.

The council emphasized that while the city will not require a business license for these vendors, they must still comply with any necessary permits from outside agencies, particularly for food vendors. This move is expected to foster greater participation in these cultural events, which are vital for community cohesion and celebration of local heritage.

In addition to the legacy events ordinance, the council also approved a change in the schedule for regular meetings, moving them from the first and third Mondays to the first and third Tuesdays of each month. This adjustment aims to improve accessibility for residents wishing to attend council meetings.

Another critical topic discussed was the first reading of an ordinance aimed at amending the municipal code to facilitate housing development projects. This amendment is part of the city’s efforts to comply with state housing mandates, specifically addressing the need for affordable housing. The council noted that the changes would allow for housing developments by right on designated priority sites, provided they meet certain criteria, including a minimum density of 20 units per acre with at least 20% of those units designated for lower-income households.

City planners highlighted that these amendments are essential for obtaining final certification of the city’s housing element, which is a state-mandated document outlining housing needs and strategies. The council expressed optimism that these changes would not only bring Selma into compliance with state requirements but also open doors to various funding opportunities for housing initiatives.

Overall, the discussions during the meeting reflect the council's commitment to enhancing community engagement through cultural events while also addressing the pressing need for affordable housing in Selma. As the city moves forward with these initiatives, residents can expect to see more vibrant community events and a concerted effort to meet housing demands in the coming years.