Dickinson EDC debates performance agreement for Align Medical Clinic infrastructure loan

A performance agreement with Align Medical Clinic sparked significant discussion at the Dickinson City Council meeting on July 8, 2025, raising questions about accountability and job retention. The agreement, which involves a forgivable loan, has drawn scrutiny due to the separation between the property owner, Dr. Sanders, and the business entity receiving the funds.

Council members highlighted that Dr. Sanders, who owns the property, is not personally liable under the performance agreement. This means that if Align Medical Clinic fails to meet its performance milestones, there are no financial repercussions for the property owner. The conversation underscored concerns about the lack of "clawbacks" that would hold the property owner accountable for the clinic's performance.

The discussion also touched on the nature of the project, which qualifies as an infrastructure initiative under Texas law. This classification allows the city to support the clinic without needing to demonstrate job retention or creation, a point that some council members found troubling. They questioned whether the clinic had provided sufficient evidence of how recent challenges had impacted its revenue.

As the council deliberates on this agreement, the focus remains on ensuring that public funds are used effectively to support local businesses while safeguarding taxpayer interests. The outcome of this agreement could set a precedent for future economic development initiatives in Dickinson.