City of Baytown City Council Meeting Recap
City Hall Council Chambers
January 22, 2026
This summary is intended to inform the public of the main topics discussed and actions taken by the Baytown City Council during meetings on January 22. For more detailed information, access the full meeting transcript and official minutes or available upon request.
City Council Work Session
Thursday, January 22 at 5:30 PM
What was Discussed?
- Shipping Container Usage
- Council discussed the current and potential use of shipping containers within Baytown. Staff shared examples of shipping container use in industrial, commercial, and residential settings, and Council provided feedback on screening, placement, and compatibility considerations.
Why It Matters? Council feedback during the work session will guide staff as they develop potential regulations. This discussion supports a balanced approach that considers industrial needs, commercial design expectations, and neighborhood compatibility.
Regular City Council Meeting
Thursday, January 22 at 6:30 PM
Community and Employee Recognitions
- Employee Recognition
- Council recognized Johnny Malone of the Baytown Area Water Authority for 30 years of service.
What was Decided?
- Child Care Facility Property Tax Exemption
- Council considered an ordinance establishing an ad valorem tax exemption for qualifying child care facility properties.
- During discussion, Council members requested additional information regarding program outcomes and how savings may benefit families and caregivers. Council voted to table the item for further discussion and additional analysis before taking action.
Why It Matters? Establishing the exemption may allow for economic growth in this industry, while also reducing tax revenue. Tabling the item allows Council to evaluate potential impacts and implementation considerations before moving forward.
- Fire Station 2 Replacement Project
- Council approved awarding a construction contract to Tegrity Contractors, Inc. for the Fire Station 2 Replacement Project.
Why It Matters? The project provides a modern facility for firefighters that supports emergency response and service delivery.
Consent Agenda
- Renewal of Industrial District Agreements and related economic development actions
- Authorizing a cost reimbursement agreement with the Federal Bureau of Investigation for Baytown Police Department operations
- Authorizing a memorandum of understanding for Texas Emergency Management Assistance Teams
- Amending the Fire Control, Prevention, and Emergency Medical Services District Fiscal Year 2025 to 2026 budget to fund the purchase of seven stretchers
- Ratifying Ordinance Number 15,997 for Americold Realty Estate, LP
- Authorizing a new Industrial District Agreement with Valentra Chemicals, LLC
- Authorizing a professional services agreement with Safebuilt, LLC for third-party permit review and inspections
- Approving construction services for renovation of the Baytown Area Water Authority Administration Building
- Ratifying emergency services to wastewater treatment plants from Magna Flow Environmental, Incorporated
- Authorizing professional staff augmentation services for the Interim Director of Public Works and Engineering
- Authorizing the purchase and installation of micro-surfacing through the Interlocal Purchasing System TIPS Cooperative Purchasing Program
Why It Matters? These items support day to day City operations, public safety readiness, infrastructure maintenance, and responsible financial management.
Other Resolutions
- Council approved a resolution extending the line of duty injury leave of absence for Firefighter Justin Kennedy for six months at full pay.
Appointments
- Council approved the reappointment of Associate Municipal Court Judges for terms ending January 31, 2028.
- Council voted to suspend action on the Municipal Court Judge appointment until no later than the second meeting in February.
Reports
- Manager’s Report
- Council received updates on Baytown Police Department accomplishments, recruitment, and civil service testing, the Brunson multimedia studio project, winter weather preparedness, and upcoming community events. The City Manager also recognized retiring department directors for their service to the City.
- Council District Report
- Councilmember Laura Alvarado provided updates on projects, programs, and events in District 1, including development activity, infrastructure improvements, and upcoming community programming.
Executive Session
- Council recessed into executive session to discuss personnel matters, economic development negotiations, and matters related to the Municipal Court Judge. No action was taken in executive session.
Get Involved
- Attend in person at City Hall Council Chambers.
- Watch the meeting replay on Xfinity Channel 16.
- Livestream available on the City of Baytown website.
- Participate in public input sessions to share your thoughts.