During the recent budget workshop held on August 2, 2025, the Haslet City Council focused on several pressing community issues, including environmental concerns related to abandoned gas well sites and the future of animal control services in the area.
A significant discussion centered on the condition of abandoned gas tanks located near Keriway. City officials expressed concern over the potential environmental hazards these sites pose, particularly for children. The council is collaborating with the gas well inspector to explore options for cleanup, despite lacking direct jurisdiction over the sites. The inspector confirmed that while the wells are technically active, they are minimally productive and present an unsightly and potentially dangerous situation. The council plans to engage with county officials and the Railroad Commission to seek remediation solutions.
In addition to environmental issues, the council addressed the status of animal control services. The city has shifted its approach, moving away from directly handling animals due to certification requirements. Instead, they are exploring partnerships with the City of Fort Worth and Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office to improve response times for animal control emergencies. The council discussed the need for a climate-controlled temporary holding shelter for animals, which would allow for better management of stray animals until they can be transferred to appropriate facilities.
Other topics included updates on code enforcement and the status of public works projects. The council confirmed that funding for a new public works building is already included in the budget, although timelines for completion may be affected by ongoing architectural and engineering processes.
As the council continues to navigate these challenges, they remain committed to enhancing community safety and environmental standards, with plans to report back on progress in the coming months.