The Highfill City Council met on November 10, 2026, to conduct regular business, hear public input, and consider ordinances and resolutions affecting city operations, utilities, planning, and development. The council established a quorum and approved the minutes from the October 13, 2026, Regular City Council Meeting and the November 4, 2026, Budget Workshop.
Community Input on Rezoning Request
Several residents spoke during public comment regarding a proposed rezoning request covering approximately 235 acres. Residents expressed concerns about housing density, traffic impacts, drainage, road infrastructure, flooding, and compatibility with the City’s long-range planning goals. Citizens also submitted emails and petition signatures for council consideration.
City officials and legal counsel explained that future development would require drainage studies, engineering review, and infrastructure improvements that must meet city standards. The council discussed how the proposed zoning aligned with Highfill’s adopted Vision Plan and Future Land Use Map.
After discussion, the council voted unanimously to deny the request, which would have rezoned the property from its existing zoning classification.
New Portable Restroom Service Approved
The council approved Resolution 2026-32, authorizing a new service agreement with White River Environmental Services for the ADA-accessible portable restroom at the city park. The new agreement will reduce monthly costs by approximately $130 while providing weekly cleaning and improved service.
Residential Trash Service Contract Finalized
The council approved Resolution 2026-33, authorizing a solid waste and recycling agreement with Eco Waste Solutions. The new contract continues the city’s efforts to provide reliable waste collection services for residents.
Water System Improvement Projects Move Forward
The council awarded contracts for two major water infrastructure projects funded through recently approved bond financing:
- Tillys Hill Booster Station Improvements were awarded to Bronco Enterprises, Inc. [Resolution 2026-34].
- West Side 18-Inch Transmission Main Extension contract was approved [Resolution 2026-35].
City staff explained that these projects are key components of Highfill’s long-term water system master plan. The improvements will strengthen water delivery capacity, improve system reliability during peak summer demand, and support future growth throughout the community.
Check Signing Policy Adopted
The council approved Resolution 2026-36 establishing a formal citywide check-signing policy for all municipal bank accounts. The policy clarifies authorized signers, outlines procedures for routine transactions, and creates safeguards for circumstances when the mayor is unavailable.
Year-End Employee Bonus Approved
The council approved Resolution 2026-37 authorizing a one-time $1,500 year-end bonus for eligible full-time city employees and designated officials. Funding will come from budget savings and additional franchise fee revenue received during 2026.
Sterling Site Subdivision Final Plat Accepted
The council approved the final plat for the Sterling Site Subdivision. City staff reported that the subdivision met all applicable requirements for streets, drainage, and water infrastructure. The development consists of large residential lots and was previously annexed into the city [Ordinance 2026-20].
Zoning and Subdivision Code Updates Approved
The council approved Ordinance 2026-21 updating Highfill’s zoning regulations to implement the recently adopted Vision Plan and Future Land Use Plan. The update establishes new planning districts and zoning standards to guide future growth and development.
The council also approved Ordinance 2026-22 eliminating certain subdivision exemptions related to family and estate property transfers. The change helps ensure that property divisions follow city subdivision requirements and infrastructure standards.
Water and Sewer Rate Adjustment Approved
The council approved a 20% increase to water and sewer usage rates effective January 1, 2027. City staff explained that the adjustment is necessary due to increased wholesale water costs and financial requirements tied to utility system bonds. For a typical residential customer using approximately 4,000 gallons per month, the increase is expected to add about $3 to $4 per month to utility bills [Ordinance 2026-23].
Officials also noted that the increase supports continued investment in utility infrastructure while maintaining required financial performance standards for the city’s water system.
Financial Report Approved
The council approved the October 2026 financial report and reviewed department updates.
Department Updates
- Construction continues on Lift Station No. 1 and remains on schedule, with completion anticipated by the end of next month.
- Public works crews completed winter equipment preparations and are ready for winter weather operations if needed.
- The City of Elm Springs has hired its own inspector, ending Highfill’s inspection services agreement.
Upcoming Meetings and Events
- Park Committee Meeting: November 17, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.
- Water and Sewer Committee Meeting: November 23, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
- Planning Commission Meeting: November 24, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.
- City Council Meeting: December 8, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.
- Christmas at the Park: December 5, 2026, at 5:30 p.m.
Transparency Note
Highfill Highlights provides a summary of actions taken during the City Council meeting. Residents can view the complete meeting agenda, approved minutes, ordinances, resolutions, and recordings through the City of Highfill’s public records process.
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