New council members to take oath of office in Rusk

RUSK – Following the swearing in of election winners, local city council members will consider the award of a contract for Phase 2 Street Paving Project during a 6 p.m. meeting Thursday, May 14, at Rusk City Hall. Action will include review of bids, contractor selection and authorization for execution of necessary documents, according to a meeting agenda.

Newly elected and re-elected council members who will take their oath of office that evening are District 4 incumbent Councilwoman Martha Neely and new council members Councilman Jan-Michal “Chucky” Pate, District 5, and Yash Asarsa, District 3.

Thursday’s agenda items also include: 

• Consider a consent agenda featuring approval of meeting minutes and city financials

• Discuss/consider acceptance of the resignation/retirement of a REDCO board member and appointment of a replacement member, as recommended by the Mayor

• Discuss/consider the reappointment of Anthony J. King to serve as City Attorney for the City of Rusk, Texas, including consideration of the terms and conditions of such appointment

• Discuss/consider approval of an Ordinance 32.07 amending the City’s Municipal Court of Record to establish or modify a Court of Record, and any related procedures or provisions required by law

• Discuss/consider implementation of live streaming for City Council meetings, including selection of equipment, services and associated policies

• Discuss/consider approving the Rusk Area Merchants to conduct road closures for Christmas in July

• Discuss/consider the additions to existing drought contingency plan for the TCEQ

An executive session is listed on the agenda, in which city leaders are expected to deliberate the appointment, employment, evaluation, reassignment, duties, disciple or dismissal of a public officer or employee; seek advice of the City Attorney regarding pending or contemplated litigation, settlement offers or matters; and discuss Police Department personnel, administrative matters, legal issues and related investigative consideration. Action related to executive session discussion – if any – must be taken after the council reconvenes into regular open session, as per Texas Government Code.