Matters — 2026

Case File 26-0600

The City Council amended the Fire Prevention Code to include local amendments to the 2021 International Fire Code, updating sections on technical assistance and inspections. These changes refined how the city enforces fire safety standards and conducts facility inspections. The ordinance was approved unanimously by an 8-0 vote on May 26, 2026.

May 26: Carried: 8 to 0

Case File 26-0599

El Paso amended its building code to authorize third-party providers to conduct fire plan reviews and inspections. This allows construction projects to use qualified private inspectors for certain fire-safety evaluations. The ordinance was approved unanimously by the City Council.

May 26: Carried: 8 to 0

Case File 26-0569

The city is submitting census tract nominations to the state for designation as Opportunity Zones, which are federal designations that encourage private investment in economically disadvantaged areas. This aligns with El Paso's broader economic development strategy and could help spur job growth and business investment in the nominated neighborhoods.

May 11: Pass

Case File 26-0905

The City Council is considering ordinances that would change the El Paso City Code provisions setting tolls for international bridges and governing toll collection for pickup trucks and other vehicles. The changes would affect what drivers pay to cross the city's international bridges.

Aug 18: Second Reading

Case File 26-0642

The Mass Transit Department Board is reviewing a request to excuse board members for their absences from recent meetings. Approving such requests affects the board's official attendance record and procedural compliance.

Case File 26-0718

The city council considered adjustments to how HQ Utility recovers distribution and power costs through customer bills. These cost recovery factors determine the portion of utility expenses passed on to residential and commercial customers. The proposal was unanimously approved by the city council.

Jun 8: Carried: 8 to 0

Case File BC-1642

The Bond Overview Advisory Committee is establishing its 2026 meeting schedule for regular oversight of municipal bond planning and financial matters. The committee holds hearings throughout the year to review and advise on bond-related initiatives affecting the city.

Case File BC-1638

The city is reviewing and updating projects funded by its 2012 Quality of Life Bond program. These bond-funded initiatives support community improvements and infrastructure across the city. The Bond Overview Advisory Committee is evaluating program progress and proposed changes.

Case File BC-1641

Louis Sokol is being introduced as a new member of the Bond Overview Advisory Committee. The committee reviews and advises on the city's bond financing and infrastructure investment decisions.

Case File BC-1635

The Bond Overview Advisory Committee reserves this time for residents to address the committee on topics not listed on the formal agenda. This allows community members to raise concerns or questions about bond oversight and financing with a three-minute limit per speaker.

Case File BC-1640

The Bond Overview Advisory Committee is holding hearings to elect its annual officers, including Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary. These positions provide leadership and oversight for the committee's work on municipal bond funding and capital projects.

Case File BC-1639

The Bond Overview Advisory Committee is establishing a process for members to request items for placement on future agendas. This ensures all committee members have opportunity to raise relevant topics for discussion and decision-making.

Simpatico East Property LLC, PZRZ25-00021 Application (Z25-00021)

A zoning change was proposed for Lot 35 in Vista Hills Subdivision Unit Eleven to allow commercial use (C-1) instead of apartment use (A-2), both with special contract and permit conditions. The City Council held a hearing on the matter but the proposal has remained inactive with no final action recorded.

Jan 6: Adopted: 8 Ayes, 0 Nays (Ordinance 019830)

Coronel Infill Development Special Permit at South Stanton Street (25-1437)

Applicants Alicia Coronel and Luis Carlos Coronel sought a special permit for infill development at 600 South Stanton Street, allowing a reduced side street setback and a 60% reduction in required parking under the city's infill development rules. City staff found the request consistent with the property's Future Land Use designation and Plan El Paso, the city's comprehensive plan. The City Council adopted the ordinance by a vote of 8 to 0.

Jan 6: ADOPTED - Ordinance 019828; Carried: 8 to 0